Sweden: Genuine warmth pervades the story of a special orphanage

T.J. Klune's latest novel, "The House in the Deep Blue Sea," introduces readers to Marsyla, an island housing a unique orphanage for children with magical abilities. This tale joins the ranks of stories about special schools for gifted youngsters, but offers its own distinct charm.

“

To the throng of films and books about schools and special homes for 'special' children, those with magical abilities, joins 'The House in the Deep Blue Sea,' the bestselling author T.J. Klune's first installment about an isolated orphanage located on an island in the sea.

The narrative centers on Linus Baker, a diligent inspector from the Bureau of Magical Youth. Armed with a 947-page handbook of regulations, Baker is tasked with evaluating orphanages and has the authority to shut down any that fail to comply. His arrival on Marsyla threatens the idyllic existence of the orphanage and its unconventional residents, particularly since one of the children is Lucy, who is described as the Antichrist.

“

Linus Baker is a man with the mandate to close orphanages that he deems to be in violation of any of the hundreds of rules in the 947-page handbook 'Rules and Regulations.'

Despite the unusual circumstances and the societal fear of these magical children, who are often perceived as monsters, the orphanage's kind-hearted master, Arthur Parnassus, strives to provide them with a good upbringing. Parnassus, himself a former resident of the island orphanage, works to protect the children from external threats and the prejudices of the majority society. Baker is given one month to assess the home, its inhabitants, and its master before delivering his final judgment.

“

But children are, above all, children, regardless of who their parents are.

The novel defies easy categorization, blending elements of feel-good fiction, soft fantasy, comic fantasy, and queer fantasy. Critics have noted its resemblance to the quirky humor and absurdity found in Wes Anderson films. The story is imbued with a genuine warmth and kindness, conveying messages about the importance of being different, the value of every individual, and the courage to be true to oneself and to love others. It also affirms that it is acceptable to be gay. Even the most principled inspector finds his resolve softening in the face of the children's vulnerability and the genuine connections he begins to form, challenging his professional detachment.

“

There is a genuine warmth and kindness in the many morals that Klune reminds us of on almost every other page: it's okay to be different, everyone is important regardless of background, it's important to show who you really are, to stand up for what you feel and for those you care about. Not least, to love. And it's okay to be gay.