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The House in the Cerulean Sea
This young adult fiction novel by author TJ Klune, an award-winning author who grew up in rural Douglas County, explores the power of belonging and the joy of inclusive community. Through fantasy and the world of magical youth living on an enchanted island, Klune celebrates children’s differences and shows the positive effects of giving children a safe and supportive place to be themselves. Youth and adults alike will enjoy this heartwarming story of kindness.
Author: TJ Klune
Year of Publishing: 2020
Number of Pages: 416
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Reviews
robbdavis (verified owner) –
This book has a great antihero protagonist, and it is a wonderful take on what it means to include those who are too often marginalized for all the wrong reasons.
sweety95838 (verified owner) –
I absolutely adored this book!
Hilary Mankofsky (verified owner) –
This is a heartwarming slightly magical adventure of a man who desperately needs one. If you allow it to, this book will wrap itself around your heart and give you a hug. Then stay with you for years to come. It’s a book I always recommend. It’s worth the read.
Melissa Anderson (verified owner) –
I loved it! It was so sweet all around and really showed love for the characters exactly as they were. I liked the body positivity slipped in there too.
Jamie Merritt (verified owner) –
This is a cozy book that I could read over and over and still enjoy each time. There are so many interesting, multi-dimensional characters, and the story draws you in quickly.
Julie VanDeHey (verified owner) –
This is a darling whimsical book that is brimming with love, acceptance and magic.
The characters are sweet, the romance endearing and it tackles important themes of inclusivity. Leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy! 5/5
nnppnn (verified owner) –
This is such a great book! It’s unique and wholesome.
Acleith (verified owner) –
Amazing and warm. A book that makes you really think about things from a different perspective. Things aren’t always as they seem and things aren’t always bad.
Misty Sorte (verified owner) –
My son and I loved this book. It was just what we were looking for!
remarcr (verified owner) –
I enjoyed this book. Full of imagination and wonder
accessdenied (verified owner) –
Interesting book. I like how the author develops the characters.
michlindawright92 (verified owner) –
A great read!
jmczech14 (verified owner) –
Thoroughly enjoyed this book! It made me think about those that don’t fit the ideals of mainstream society, but also the effects of trauma (big and small) on how we treat each other and our capacity for kindness and grace.
MCalvert123 (verified owner) –
A sweet, feel-good story with endearing characters. Recommend!
Sandy Moyer (verified owner) –
I just don’t like the fantasy style book. But will pass this on to someone who might
Ashley Flowers (verified owner) –
Very awesome read, entertaining, suspenful, cofmt ready. Took place in a very hard time in my life
SMohler (verified owner) –
This is a wonderful book for younger and older adults alike! Greatly enjoyed it!
Melissa Glidewell (verified owner) –
This book is great on a single read, we did it as a family read, also great for that! It held everyone’s attention and we are looking forward to another shared book.
JoAnna Lamb (verified owner) –
Really good story. Well written. Creative but relatable characters
italianrn (verified owner) –
Great Book!
nnunezv (verified owner) –
What a warm, magical book!
gkaplowitz (verified owner) –
Delightful story that is told through the lens of YA, but has a myriad of lessons for readers of all ages.
JHunnicutt0730 (verified owner) –
Wonderfully written, great representation and glad to find an author who is local to our community we can continue to support
Janel Sorenson (verified owner) –
A magical adventure about love, persistence, and the power of acceptance. Plus, a multitude of opportunities to laugh out loud. Highly recommend it- I bought copies for my mom, daughter, and friend’s classroom.
Ellen Balkovec (verified owner) –
This book was beautiful. Everything about it. I enjoyed it so much and it should be a must-read for anyone who loved the Miss Peregrine series.
Mary Morris (verified owner) –
One of the most thought-provoking books I’ve read, and that is saying a great deal. I was … more than a little reluctant, due to the BIG ISSUE, but ended up loving it.
Tanyasan (verified owner) –
Such a wonderfully enjoyable book! Magical and grounded at the same time. The story and characters really draw you in. Great book for reading aloud with others!
Courtney McHill (verified owner) –
This was a fun read and was so incredibly touching and sweet. I kind of knew where it was going most of the time but I enjoyed every moment of it.
arnoldlk (verified owner) –
This book was enjoyable and not what I expected – and that’s kind of the point, I suspect.
MCampos (verified owner) –
Brilliantly written. You won’t be disappointed.
kjohn1385 (verified owner) –
Absolutely loved it. The relationships were beautiful and I appreciate the representation.
Kpeters21 (verified owner) –
A book of inclusivity, magic, and living life being free to be who you are… what more could a reader need? This is a fantastic book and I think many people will find joy in its pages.
mfulkie (verified owner) –
I love this book!!!
kwatsonyoung (verified owner) –
This was adorable and really heartwarming. It was really predictable, but still fun. It’s classified here as YA, though I would consider it more an adult whimsical book. The protagonist is a middle aged man with a very average life who finds a temporary escape from the mundane, which I think we can all relate to.
kathyanng (verified owner) –
Charming! Kindness goes a long way
lellismba (verified owner) –
This was a fun and interesting read. It is like nothing I have ever read before, and I was able to visualize the islands, the characters, and the Department Charge of Magical Youth. Highly recommend!
ashmccudden (verified owner) –
as a queer soon-to-be special educator, this story warmed my heart in ways a book has never done. I found great warm and comfort in this book and truly think everyone should read it.
Sydney Burrell (verified owner) –
I was sucked in from the very beginning. The tone and pace were perfect, a great book to sink into and entertaining enough to get lost in.
pforbes (verified owner) –
This book quickly became one of my favorites and is now going to be a comfort read. I absolutely adore this story of found family. This book is full of magic and wonder, but at it’s core is a tale of love and learning. We are never too old to lean and grow. Opening our arms to new adventures may also open your heart to new beginnings.
Ruby Buchholtz (verified owner) –
Great book with lots of depth and insightful characters.
Julie Scism (verified owner) –
This book was incredible. It sent me down a TJ Klune wormhole and then I read all his most recent novels. I can say with certainty this is my favorite!
Ailiah Schafer (verified owner) –
TJ Klune is just a beautiful storyteller. I was invested in each and every character and loved joining them on this journey
Jennifer Jackson (verified owner) –
This was a fun and unique story. The imagery that came to mind was wonderful, and I enjoyed the unique characters that were brought to life and introduced one at a time. A bold take on some difficult topics, this book allows the reader to explore a world where being different becomes dangerous and powerful. A good read.
Samantha Massingale (verified owner) –
This was a wonderful book that captured my attention and has a fantastic ending
Ashley Mogford (verified owner) –
Upon receiving this book, I discovered it was not what I had anticipated.
Dawn Blythe (verified owner) –
I laughed, I cried, I laughed while crying. I audibly sighed, squealed, and hugged the book to my chest.
This story is beautiful, in every way possible. I can already tell that this book will be one that I read over and over again, just to feel it all over again.
Emma Rose (verified owner) –
Absolutely loved this book! Such a great story!
KrystaRodgers22 (verified owner) –
Such a sweet story!
Kazuo Kyler-Yano (verified owner) –
Loved this book. I read it first to see if it was appropriate for my kiddo and we loved reading it a second time together!
[email protected] (verified owner) –
So glad I read this. A friend described it as a soft, warm hug and I couldn’t agree more!
LaurenK (verified owner) –
My son and I read this together and it was such a joy. A wonderful story of finding places where we truly belong and what happens in communities when we let fear dictate our interactions with our neighbors. Excellent messages and lots to discuss and digest.
Juliana Minn (verified owner) –
Fun, entertaining read. Kind of like an updated Ms. Peregrine. Did find myself thinking that the story is a tad too lengthy at times though.
sarahmklann (verified owner) –
I absolutely loved this story. The author magically sets the stage for readers to understand ALL. I highly recommend this book to all.
christinahedge (verified owner) –
This book was an easy, fun, magical read about the importance of belonging and family!!! Looooved it.
terriks (verified owner) –
Beautiful story. Heartwarming. Not just for young adults!
criggins (verified owner) –
A story about how deep loneliness can grow, and how developing friendships are vital for living a fulll life. Very likable main character and very heartwarming novel.
Cecily Heiner (verified owner) –
A charming tale of a beaurocrat who finds love and color on a mysterious adventure on an island full of magical creatures. A gentle gay narrative underlies the story. A fast, fun read that is thought provoking.
RebeccaM (verified owner) –
Always fun to read something light but also with strong lessons to be learned about love, acceptance, and knowing your self.
[email protected] (verified owner) –
This book was great i loved it and i’m excited for the sequel
Cassandramolloy (verified owner) –
Really good
Alexis Hiner (verified owner) –
I gifted this book to a teen that I work with, in hopes that it could help her escape her own reality at the time. Her eyes lit up when she would tell me about this book, it was exactly what I had hoped for her.
Paige Seehawer (verified owner) –
This was such an amazing book! The characters were so well written and it had so many overlapping learning moments about kindness needing to be shown. I’ve already preordered the next in the series.
Vickie Meneses (verified owner) –
An awesome read! This book generated great prompts for conversation about the community that we live in.
Becca Dooley (verified owner) –
Linus, a case worker, goes to check in on a house for magical children. On the way he begins reading the file for “Lucy,” short for Lucifer. Linus is so concerned that he doesn’t manage to read any other files before arriving.
This book is about letting go of prejudices and seeing people for who they truly are. The lessons from this book could be applied to the experience of so many marginalized people in our world.
**Lucy/Lucifer was a bit off putting and I debated continuing, but I had heard so many good things about this book. I’m glad I finished it.
KATIE KENNEY (verified owner) –
I can not recommend this book enough. A Douglas County author transformed the trauma of growing up in Douglas County into something truly beautiful. Thank you Klune and thank you ford family for making it available.
agate.harris (verified owner) –
The House in the Cerulean Sea is an adventure that revolves around finding oneself and the journey to live authentically. It reveals that benefits of having an open mind and celebrating inclusivity.
cduarte (verified owner) –
such a great story and experience
alyssakornbrath (verified owner) –
Recommended by our school counselor and loving it so far
Hannah Holzman (verified owner) –
Great book, the characters are well developed
wasabijones (verified owner) –
We are reading this as a family and adoring the story line. I love that my kids are seeing inclusivity and love playing out.
KathrynJane Konink (verified owner) –
An interesting storyline with a great message
Jess_Note (verified owner) –
Easy and fun read! Loved the emphasis on the importance of belonging and family.
tlslibrary (verified owner) –
Delightful book about differences, abilities, and friendship for older children.
Charleen Kepner (verified owner) –
Lovely story of acceptance and belonging. It deals with many themes of marginalization, compassion, and learning to unlearn.
tstevensgarcia (verified owner) –
Beautifully written book. Unique and magical.
Jenny Merrell (verified owner) –
I enjoyed this book. Part adventure, part romance, and part lessons on being inclusive. It is an enjoyable story.
Karalyn Jenkins (verified owner) –
A beautiful book and really excited to read this one. It’s been on my list for a while!
Emma Boobar (verified owner) –
A heartwarming story with whimsy and a positive message. A great read for young and old.
Sarah Cobb (verified owner) –
The kids in my class LOVE this book!
Sarah Cobb (verified owner) –
The kids in my class LOVE this book! I immediately ordered the new sequel and we are all excited to read it.
VickieMae (verified owner) –
Awesome read children loved it
Lindsay (verified owner) –
Great book.
Robin Plies (verified owner) –
A sweet story about how getting to know those who are different creates an opportunity to see their beauty and uniqueness and to show kindness and love to others and to oneself.
alyssakornbrath (verified owner) –
Great story for teaching kindness and belonging!
Andrew Mattingly (verified owner) –
Pure Joy- this book is about accepting and changing!
Donna Scott (verified owner) –
I found this book to be measurably disturbing. I ordered it based on the brief description that had me captivated.
Goodwill will get this book to sell as I give away all sorts of books to children and youth under a wide variety of genres.
Cannot give this one in all comfortable conscience and I am not comfortable with throwing it away.
Deanna English (verified owner) –
this was a interesting read, fun, and full of places to put it into our divisive issues. loved the read, and will be discussing it at the next boo club
stormiautumn (verified owner) –
Feel good story with depth. Bought for my nephew and he encouraged me to read along with him. We loved it!
Kady Taylor (verified owner) –
This book is so great for a middle school classroom! My students will love it!
Crystal Robles (verified owner) –
My kids loved this book. The story is full of charm and kindness, exploring themes of acceptance, love, and being true to yourself. The orphanage is home to magical children. They had this read in less than a month and that says a lot for my kiddos.
kimbott1 (verified owner) –
This is my new favorite book! I have absolutely fell in love with the characters and the message of inclusion and family. There were many times I actually laughed out loud. I recommend this to all my friends and family. My 14 year old is now reading it. The sequel is just as good. Please add more novels like this to this program!
Morgan Bauer (verified owner) –
Wonderful book that I was so happy to read and be able to share with others!
[email protected] (verified owner) –
Wonder-ful book, loved the characters. Deals with issues (prejudice, being different) in a refreshing way. Young adult book with lots of wisdom.
bolly (verified owner) –
Heartwarming story with quirky characters and gives readers multiple perspectives when considering central issues.
KSzek (verified owner) –
A book that I really look forward to sharing with my children once they’re a bit older. It was a heart-warming book that provided a great escape for my brain.
themusicmaster527 (verified owner) –
4/5 ⭐️
TJ Klune has a knack for hitting you with enough crazy moments out the gate that while you struggle to come to terms with what is happening he’s setting up a more serious tone for the back half… House in the Cerulean Sea is equal parts quirk and heart, the time spent with the characters may be brief but they’re profoundly endearing. A story about loneliness, complacency and how we trap ourselves without even knowing we’re doing.
Ellen Balkovec (verified owner) –
This is the most beautiful book, a must read.
Krystle Kuester (verified owner) –
What a page turner. Loved this one. Passing it to my teen to read next.
Avara Roberts (verified owner) –
Great read!
Connor Jettner (verified owner) –
LOVED this book !! Select books is such an awesome resource, appreciate it so much
Wendy Thelander (verified owner) –
I was drawn in by the cover of this book. The story was not exactly what I expected, and became somewhat predictable but the characters were so interesting and likeable (even the son of Satan!) and the storytelling so enchanting that I recommend it to anyone whose mind is open like a book.
Lizturner (verified owner) –
A wonderful book; a joy to read, really. The story teaches such a valuable lesson about inclusion of those who are often judged or excluded.
Courtney Szper (verified owner) –
I enjoyed it! I had wanted to read it to my 7 year old but quickly realized it was a bit too big for her, but as an adult who enjoys YA, I loved it! It was a pleasure to read, the characters were great, and the message was exactly what I needed during these heavy times. For anyone looking for an escape that will inspire and move you, I recommend reading this gem.
claplaca (verified owner) –
Absolutely love this book!
lstruzik (verified owner) –
This book was beautiful in its joy in the face of differentness.
Bee Parsons (verified owner) –
Absolutely love this one. Amazing found family and so many great lessons told in this book. Highly recommend!
Brooklyn Perry (verified owner) –
The characters are delightful and I really enjoyed the style of prose. The moral of the story is presented overtly and repetitiously, which makes sense for a younger YA audience but was unnecessary as an adult reader. I’d still definitely recommend this book as a great, cozy read! 4.5/5
Jordan Snyder (verified owner) –
This book is amazing, such a beautiful story!
Danielle hall (verified owner) –
nice book
Debra Dreiling (verified owner) –
Wonderful Book!!!
ThisbeMaple (verified owner) –
This book was exactly what I needed and I couldn’t love it more. It’s a warm, joyful hug for your soul.
Lauren Griffin (verified owner) –
This is a beautiful story and I love that it’s from a local author!
Rachael Parker (verified owner) –
Another amazing book by T.J. Klune. His stories are captivating and meaningful.
Aurora Menkee (verified owner) –
Great read! I read it to my 6.5 year old and some of it went over her head but she still enjoyed it.
Nia Sopiwnik Stewart (verified owner) –
This book took our family by surprise. It was so much fun to read. It had us laughing and thinking deeply on how we can relate these different magical beings to people who are different and marginalized in our own society. We want spend more time with all the characters, even the grumpy ferry captain.
Nicole Owens (verified owner) –
Wonderful story!
Heather Gomez (verified owner) –
A book that appeals to a wide age range
JGodden (verified owner) –
I just started reading this book and I can already tell that it is going to be a great book!
Danellmb (verified owner) –
Wonderful story. Couldn’t put it down
Chloe Lundabolt (verified owner) –
Fantastic characters and even better story!
Reveh (verified owner) –
“I love this book so much because it is both serious and hilarious at the same time. It has a very serious meaning behind it but somehow the author manages to weave in humor seamlessly. Definitly recommended.”
– My 12 year old daughter 🙂
claplaca (verified owner) –
Beautiful book!
DonnaASmith (verified owner) –
Interesting story line. If you like fantasy, I’m sure you would enjoy this book.
Lindseyloo (verified owner) –
Such a good book from the beginning. 😉 acceptance, love and kindness. Great book!!
Aiden Mann (verified owner) –
Amazing read!
Sonja Daniels (verified owner) –
I absolutely adored this book. Full of adventure
Allison Martinson (verified owner) –
LOVED IT
EM (verified owner) –
So good!! Excellent read
Lyssa59 (verified owner) –
This book had a wonderful plot and very vividly written characters
Jennifer Monk (verified owner) –
This was a very interesting book left me intrigued. I love learning about others in similar relationships with others and this was a magical experience. I really enjoyed reading this book and my young adult kids are reading it now.
telkinton (verified owner) –
Wonderful read about those who are seen as not fitting in, and those who “have their bubble popped” and must choose to embrace the change or let the bubble reform around them. A great message on many levels.
kaylaj23 (verified owner) –
Loved this book. kept me in tuned and did not want to put the book down. I will be reading this again
Tomas Ramirez (verified owner) –
What a lovely book. Highly recommend.
Dr. Vicky Roller (verified owner) –
The writing is tender and imaginative, evoking the charm of a modern fairy tale with themes that resonate deeply in today’s world. It’s a story about chosen family, love in all forms, and the belief that people (and creatures) deserve to be seen for who they truly are.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — A comforting, uplifting read that reminds us that kindness can be revolutionary.
Kristen Drechsler (verified owner) –
A nice cozy read. Enjoyed it a lot.
Hailey Wortham (verified owner) –
Such a good book!!
Lynda Grounds (verified owner) –
Quick read!
Mrshinds2001 (verified owner) –
I reread and reread this book…it’s a beautiful tale of love and belonging.
Kiva Lyell (verified owner) –
Such a great story my daughter and I both read this one. It was magical and a feel good story. Linus’s experience could be a story of our time. I love stories about acceptance and love. I am happy that the story includes LGBQT+ themes as this helps normalize as this part of everyday life, because it is. It can help readers be reminded they are not alone if they are part of the LGBQT+ community themselves or if friend or loved one is.
[email protected] (verified owner) –
A magical book that takes you on an unexpected journey
dmurillo99 (verified owner) –
My niece loved the book. She said it was engaging
marco zarate (verified owner) –
Amazing story. My 4th grader got through it with time and they loved it as well!
ashleyfaye (verified owner) –
This book had me so drawn into it that it was hard to put down and that is very rare for me! I don’t usually read fiction, but this book was awesome! It had some valuable life lessons spread throughout it and had the concept of inclusiveness throughout. It’s geared for adults/young adults and not really a kids book though, so if you want it for kids I would recommend reading it with the child since there is some content (brief sexual comment and swear words) that may not be the best for children to read on their own. For adults though it’s a fantastic book that I highly recommend.
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