Charming and endearing, The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune was a story I wished wouldn’t end. Filled with fun and heartwarming characters, I wanted to keep reading once I reached the end.

In this quirky world, magical beings have to be registered and monitored by the government. See something, say something. The main character, Linus Baker, is a caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, DICOMY. He’s buttoned-up and by the book. Because of that, he’s sent by Extremely Upper Management to investigate an orphanage to make sure everything is in order.

The problem is, these are not ordinary children. Even as far as magical children go, these are very different kids. In fact, they’re quite dangerous.  The pages are filled with quaint and odd and incredible and delight. The message is one of kindness and accepting people for who they are instead of judging based on labels. A great message accompanying a wonderful story.

Another highly recommended read! I’m going to check out what else TJ Klune has written.

Linus Baker is a by-the-book case worker in the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. He’s tasked with determining whether six dangerous magical children are likely to bring about the end of the world.

Arthur Parnassus is the master of the orphanage. He would do anything to keep the children safe, even if it means the world will burn. And his secrets will come to light.

The House in the Cerulean Sea is an enchanting love story, masterfully told, about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place―and realizing that family is yours.