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Book Review The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ KLune

Updated: Nov 20, 2023

Each and every one of us holds a distinct spark that sets us apart from the rest of the world. We are all extraordinary in our own way. Yet, there are moments when we struggle to fit in with the masses. But let us remember, this does not diminish our worth or our individuality that deserves to be celebrated.




Linus Baker is a social worker at the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth. He visits government-approved orphanages to ensure that the orphans have a safe and happy home. He finds purpose in his work, as it brings joy to underprivileged children. However, he knows that his workplace is not good for his well-being. Despite feeling lost, he is hesitant to switch jobs because he needs the income to support himself.


He is the same as any one else in the world. Everyone has to work for their basic necessities and strives to make a lot of money. However, basic needs do not have to be expensive. We only need enough food to satisfy our hunger, not fancy meals. We only need a comfortable sleep, not a fancy bed. Each day is repetitive and we spend our entire life chasing after money.


Once a day, he receives a task which is the same as other tasks in his job. He had to oversee an orphanage in Marsyas. This Marsyas is quite special because all children are more different from other normal children. Due to the nature of their genes, they are able to do harm to others. The DICOTOMY is worried that if they keep this orphanage, these children will be in danger in the outside world. Additionally, residents in the vicinity of the orphanage harbor strong negative feelings towards children, consistently speaking ill of them.


Children do not leave a good impression on him. Their thoughts on death and people's lives make him scared. Linus is confused by their scary looks and is unsure of his actions. Despite his years of experience, he is now questioning if these strange creatures are even children at all.


Despite his strong beliefs, he falls for them. They show him the beauty of life, love, and the special qualities that make each person unique.


In books, there are many characters and valuable lessons. To me, the one that affects me the most is Chauncey. He's a slimy creature who dreams of being a bellhop. He believes that this is the only way to be loved and help others. However, because of his scary appearance, people always label him as strange. He's the type of person who frightens others, and that's all they see in him. Because of his past traumas, he feels the need to conform to people's perception of him. But despite this, he's a kind and gentle soul who always treats others with kindness and is ready to lend a helping hand. Unfortunately, society tends to reject those with unique qualities, making everyone conform and lacking in imagination.


Linus Baker belongs to LGBTQ+. In a month in Marsyas, he falls in love with the owner, Author, who is considered the stepfather of these children. The sympathy and love make two men connect with each other. Love starts from the feeling of the heart, no matter of their genders.


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