About this book
(blurb from Pan MacMillan SA)
A magical house. A secret past. A summons that could change everything.
Somewhere Beyond the Sea is a story of resistance, lovingly told, about the daunting experience of fighting for the life you want to live and doing the work to keep it.
Winner of the 2024 Goodreads Choice Award for Fantasy
Arthur Parnassus has built a good life on the ashes of a bad one. He’s headmaster at an orphanage for magical children, on a peculiar island, assisted by love-of-his-life Linus Baker. And together, they’ll do anything to protect their extraordinary and powerful charges.
However, when Arthur is forced to make a public statement about his dark past, he finds himself fighting for those under his care. It’s also a fight for the better future that all magical people deserve. Then when a new magical child joins their island home, Arthur knows they’ve reached breaking point. The child finds power in calling himself a monster, a name Arthur has tried so hard to banish to protect his children. Challenged from within and without, their volatile family might grow stronger. Or everything Arthur loves could fall apart.
TJ Klune’s Somewhere Beyond the Sea is the No. 1 New York Times-bestselling sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea.
416 pages
ISBN 9781035009374
My Thoughts
My Thoughts“Somewhere Beyond The Sea” by T.J. Klune is a sequel to the enchanting “The House in the Cerulean Sea.” The story continues the adventures of Arthur and his magical orphanage on a mysterious island. Arthur, determined to give the children the love and care he never experienced, creates a loving family with his partner, Linus, and their friends. However, Arthur’s past resurfaces, forcing him to make tough decisions that could alter everything.
Themes
The book delves into significant themes, including:
- Love and Identity: The exploration of self-acceptance and the power of love is at the heart of the story.
- Found Family: The bond between the characters transcends blood relations, highlighting the importance of chosen families.
- Prejudice and Bigotry: The book tackles contemporary issues such as prejudice and discrimination, making strong parallels to real-world societal problems.
- Hope and Healing: Despite the challenges, the story is imbued with a sense of hope and the healing power of community.
What Worked
What Worked- Character Development: The characters, both old and new, are endearing and well-developed. Their emotional depth and humour make them relatable.
- Magical Realism: Klune expertly blends magical elements with real-life issues, creating a whimsical yet poignant narrative.
- Writing Style: Klune’s writing is heartfelt and witty, capturing the reader’s attention and emotions. The blend of seriousness and humour is well-balanced.
- Parallels to Reality: The book’s reflections on societal issues are thought-provoking and relevant, resonating with readers on a deeper level.
Who May Enjoy This Book
“Somewhere Beyond The Sea” will appeal to:
- Fans of the first book, “The House in the Cerulean Sea,” who wish to see the continuation of Arthur and Linus’s story.
- Readers who enjoy magical realism with a strong emotional core.
- Those interested in stories about found families, love, and identity.
- Individuals who appreciate narratives that reflect contemporary societal issues in a fantastical setting.
Conclusion
“Somewhere Beyond The Sea” by T.J. Klune is a heartwarming sequel that invites readers back into a magical world filled with lovable characters and poignant themes. While it may not surpass the first book’s charm, it still offers a delightful escape with its blend of humour, hope, and healing. The story’s reflections on love, identity, and prejudice make it a relevant and thought-provoking read. If you’re in the mood for a story that feels like a warm hug, this book is for you.
Thank you to Pan MacMillan SA for the opportunity to read this book. And a special thank you to #TranskeiMeg and #BookmarkMyWorld for being my #BuddyReaders, it was great fun!
Read my review of The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
About the Author
