Author: T.J. Klune
Genre: Fantasy; Young Adult
Rating: 9/10
Linus Baker lives a lonely and dull life. That is, until he is assigned a case that takes him to an island surrounded by the bluest ocean and inhabited by the most special of occupants. Can he go back to what he knows when everything he sees and hears challenges his beliefs and pulls at his heartstrings?
You know that feeling you get when you finish a book and just wished you had another book that will give you the exact same emotions and atmosphere, but at the same time you know it’s impossible to recreate how magical reading the book felt? That’s how I felt after finishing this book.
The best way to describe this book is simply the word “happy”. Imagine watching a Disney movie, except even better because it lasts five times longer. After all, who doesn’t love found family or watching a grumpy old man (with a secret heart of gold) open up to a bunch of outcast kids.
The star of this book was really its characters. Not only were they well fleshed out, but they were also incredibly likeable and engaging. Their amusing interactions were definitely the highlights of the book for me.
“Humanity is so weird. If we’re not laughing, we’re crying or running for our lives because monsters are trying to eat us. And they don’t even have to be real monsters. They could be the ones we make up in our heads. Don’t you think that’s weird?”
On the other hand, while the premise was unique, the plot was predictable.
However, a book is the sum of its parts. The predictable plot, lovable characters and simple writing style were what created the enchanting atmosphere. It made me feel like a kid reading a middle grade book again, and this is by no means an insult. I believe books such as these are some of the best because sometimes you just want to return to simpler days. In fact sometimes, these books hit harder and deeper than most.
Though the lessons and messages woven throughout the book are straightforward, it doesn’t hurt to hear them time and time again. Its modest nature is what makes it feel relatable and all the more touching. As I grow up and begin to read more abstract novels, books such as these are a breath of fresh air.
“We should always make time for the things we like. If we don't, we might forget how to be happy.”
Moreover, there has always been something endearing and comforting about children’s books or children in books. I love their naivety and genuineness, how they are unable to hide their true feelings, and how they show love and concern. Reading about adults, you constantly question their motives and actions while with children, you never have to doubt their intentions.
Lastly, I just want to give a shout out to our main character, Linus Baker, who was not just a sullen old man that did his job for the sake of it. Instead, he had the best of intentions and believed strongly in standing up for the vulnerable. The last thing I expected from this book was a LGBT love story between two middle aged men but I am definitely not complaining.
This book was pure escapism and sometimes that’s all we need.
“Don’t you wish you were here?”
Reviewed by: N.G. Rainwater (1st reading)
Yes I agree !! We should never forget to re-kindle the child in us!! Good Review BTW!! Kudos