‘The House in the Cerulean Sea’ by TJ Klune
The House on the Cerulean Sea is a masterly example of how fantasy narratives metaphorically represent big ideas and questions we have about the world we live in, written in a style that is hopeful and whimsical that brings a smile to readers’ faces. As a friend of ours commented, “It is the perfect read if you are looking to be transported to another world and be uplifted!” It has been deemed suitable for students aged 14 and over.
This book took us on a memorable journey along with its protagonist, the lonely and ‘adventureless’, Linus Baker, to a mysterious and fantastical orphanage on a distant island, housing six seemingly dangerous magical children and their enigmatic Master, Arthur Parnassus. As a caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Children, Linus has been set a highly classified assignment by his employer, the Extremely Upper Management, to investigate the orphanage and determine if the children should remain open.
The narrative skilfully explores themes of belonging and family, as well as asking questions of nature and nurture, and the inclusion and acceptance of others. But it was being drawn into the unique lives of those on the island, and being charmed by the endearing personalities of the characters that captivated us. The children on the island - whose magic deems them dangerous by outsiders - reveal that they share the same needs and dreams as any child, and we found ourselves becoming as protective of them as some of the other characters are.
Suitable for:
Ages 14+ (with some mature themes and ideas)
Inspires thinking about:
Families and friendship
Social issues affecting children and adolescents
Identify and belonging
Diversity and representation
Inclusivity and acceptance
Useful for exploring:
Positive representation of diverse relationships
Excellent example of fantasy genre
Characterisation
Metaphorical representations of real life issues
Representations of diversity
Modern social issues that relate to children and adolescents
Exploring human experiences through character development and relationships
Why we recommend it:
Positive representation of diversity and inclusion
Endearing and captivating characters and relationships
Melodic and whimsical style
Offers opportunities for exploring a variety of social values and issues (at simple and complex levels)
Shows family as being more than who you are related to
