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A review of the audiobook version of T.J. Klune's hit novel
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Book Title: The House in the Cerulean Sea
Author: T.J. Klune
Genre: Fantasy
Where You Can Find It: Anywhere books are sold; I listened to the audiobook version on Scribd
Audiobook Length: Just over 12 hours
Earlier this year, I listened to The House in the Cerulean Sea, a novel by T.J. Klune that was popping up EVERYWHERE online. I couldn't not know notice the book's gorgeous and quirky cover while scrolling through social media. Also, every book podcast I listen to (there are many, I'll link to some at the end of this review) had talked about it.
When I finally listened to it, I was completely blown away. I gave the book 5 stars on Goodreads (the highest rating possible), and the title immediately became one of my favorite books of all-time.
What It's About
The story follows a 40-year-old loaner named Linus (though, truth be told, the character seems older, probably because he's so glum). Linus works for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, and the majority of the book takes place in an orphanage for children who each have a different magical ability.
The best way I can describe this book is a cross between Muppet Babies and Harry Potter. The characters are loveable and vulnerable, but they also have some cool magical powers that bless and curse them at the same time.
The book has underlying messages (which come more and more to the forefront as the book goes on) about society, acceptance, and standing up for what's right.
First Impressions
The beginning of the book started out a little slow. The setup to introduce Linus, his lifestyle, and his job took some time. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I was going to stick with the book. But I had heard so many great things about it that I soldiered on, and boy, am I glad I did!
Why Audio is the Way to Go
The introduction of the magical children is when this novel really takes off and got me hooked. The children are also the reason why I highly recommend listening to this as an audiobook. The narrator, Daniel Henning, does a distinctly different voice for each child, and the voices truly make the book what it is.
I’m sure that I would have laughed out loud quite a bit if I had read the book in hard copy/digital, but I am certain that I laughed more because of how the dialogue with and between the children comes across in the audio format. The characters came across so vividly that, at times, it seemed like I was watching a movie.
Bottom Line
OMG, go listen to this book.
Overall, it's well-plotted. There's a clear conflict which is resolved in the end, the characters are really well-developed and charming, and the narration is just perfect. Even though it started out slow for me (and maybe it will for you, too), it was so worth the listen in the end. I'd listen to it all over again!
I loved this book so much that I just spent my last Libro.fm credit buying T.J. Klune's latest release, Under the Whispering Door.
Buy The House in the Cerulean Sea Audiobook
You can buy the audiobook version of The House in the Cerulean Sea pretty much everywhere audiobooks are sold. Here are some links to help you get this great book in your ears ASAP.
Buy the Paperback or Hardcover Version
Not an audiobook person? I still think this book is so well-written that it's worth the read. You can buy the paperback on Bookshop.org or Amazon.com
Related Podcast Recommendation
To listen to an interview with author T.J. Klune, check out this episode of The Klunatics Podcast (yes, it's a podcast dedicated to the author, and they released 20 episodes in 2020).
Have you listened to The House in the Cerulean Sea? What did you think? Post a comment below (no spoilers, please!).
Don't forget to check out my list of favorite book podcasts, and some additional independent book podcasts (so many podcasts about books!!!
Want more book ideas? Check out my list of books by podcasters!