If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I hosted a readalong for this book in June with my friend Meghan! We had a great time, reading and discussing this lovely book. It is truly one of my new favorites, and it will be that way for many years to come, I think. It’s really just such a happy book! The House in the Cerulean Sea is truly one of a kind.
However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t books that feel similar! As we move into the end of summer, these are books you’ll want to check out for whismy and found family. Among other things! Seriously, TJ Klune is one of the best writers of character and relationships. See my review of Flash Fire for confirmation! Honestly, there is nothing like the characters in a Klune book.
Disclosure: I am an affiliate of Bookshop.org and I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Visit my shop for recommendation lists here.
The House in the Cerulean Sea Read-A-Likes
Do you want a book dealing with found family?
Wolfsong by TJ Klune
When Ox was 12, his father left. Then, when he was 16, he met Joe. Joe, who would be the one to change Ox’s life. When Ox learns Joe’s family’s secret, his world is forever changed. With Klune’s signature found family and fantastic characters, this one will keep you up all night until you finish it.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
The Dregs are well known in Ketterdam, especially since they’re lead by Kaz Brekker. When Kaz is offered a job that will make them rich beyond belief, he takes it. They just have to survive long enough to get rich. The Crows are one of my favorite squads in a fantasy book, and I’ve loved seeing them come to life on screen.
Red, White, & Royal Blue by Case McQuiston
After Alex makes a scene with Prince Henry at a royal wedding, they’re forced to be friends for the media. However, what Alex doesn’t expect is to fall in love with a Prince of Wales. Obviously, I’ve gushed about this book a lot and the little found family Alex and Henry have is lovely. I love them and want them to be my friends!
How about a book with a character finding their confidence?
Dreadnought by April Daniels
Danny just inherited the powers of Dreadnought, the most powerful superhero. The only problem? It changed her body to what she always dreamed. Which means she now needs to come out as transgender. Throuhghout this story, Danny goes from being unsure of herself to fighting for what she believes in. In other words, it’s a great fantasy novel!
Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
Yadriel is determind to show his family that he can make it as a brujo. So, he summons a ghost. However, it’s the wrong ghost: Julian instead of his cousin. In order to get him back, he has to help Julian tie up loose ends. Yadriel finds the confidence he needs in this book to forge his own path. And it’s lovely!
Cosmoknights by Hannah Templer
For the most part, Pan’s life hasn’t been too exciting. Except for when she helped the princess escape when they were kids. When a pair of gladiators shows up at Pan’s house, she finally decides to make a break for it. This graphic novel/comic is beautifully drawn with a squad of characters you’ll love. I definitely need the next volume!
Maybe you want a feel-good fantasy.
The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
After joining the crew on the Wayfarer, Rosemary doesn’t expect much. Just a quiet life aboard a ship. When the crew is offered the job of a lifetime, things are about to get more exciting. As in The House in the Cerulean Sea, this book will make you smile. Honestly, it’s like a warm space hug!
Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker and Wendy Xu
Working at her grandmother’s bookshop, Nova knows a lot more about magic than your average teen. When an old friend from the past needs help, Nova does whatever she can to do so. Even if this is technically a graphic novel, the feel good element remains true! It’s a cute love story, featuring all kinds of magic.
Lumberjanes Volume 1 by Noelle Stevenson
The Lumberjanes scout camp has a lot of…unusual creatures. Five best friends find themselves in the middle of a quest, as it seems like someone doesn’t want the camp there. This is just an upbeat comics series that you’ll want to keep reading. For real, the friends are great and the setting is adventurous and exciting!
Or a fantasy/sci-fi with gay main characters.
Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
Simon Snow is the Chosen One. But he isn’t a very good one, especially according to his roommate, Baz. Nothing ever goes right for Simon. Who also just might be in love with his roommate. With this trilogy finally being done, you can read Simon Snow’s story in its entirity! You’ll definitely want to be sure to bring tissues.
The Darkness Outside of Us by Eliot Schrefer
Ambrose wakes up on a ship with no memory of how he got there. The ship is in chaos, with his shipmate barricaded in his room. It’s up to Ambrose and Kodiak to figure out what happened and save everyone on board. This is a new sci-fi release, and looks to be promising! I’ve only heard good things!
Yesterday Is History by Kosoko Jackson
After getting a life-saving liver transplanet, Andre suddenly learns that he has the ability to time travel. Where he connects with a boy from 1969. As he spends his time between past and future, Andre must make a decision that will alter his life forever. Adventure and romance await in this recent YA fantasy release!
Perhaps you just want something that will make you laugh.
The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune
Nick has always been obsessed with the Extraordinaries, or superpowered beings, in Nova City. After he has an encounter with his favorite, Shadow Star, Nick decides to make himself Extraordinary. Nick is a hilarious main character, and you’re guarenteed to laugh in this book. And the sequel. They are both amazing!
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
Gideon is getting ready to leave her planet when her nemesis, Harrowhawk, calls her into service. They must partake in a trial of skill and strength for the emperor. While this book is a bit confusing, Gideon is a fantastic narrator. Honestly, she’s hilarious and makes everything about space infinitely better.
My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand
A re-imagined version of Jane Eyre, but with ghosts. This is a whole series by a trio of authors re-writing history for famous female characters. So far, each volume has been an incredibly fun time and I can’t wait to see what comes next.