Interview with T.J. Klune on His Upcoming Releases and Themes

When asked about his unique writing style, Klune noted that while there are recognizable elements in his stories, he strives to create varied narratives to keep himself engaged. In *The House in the Cerulean Sea*, for instance, while the romance between Linus Baker and Arthur Parnassus is significant, Klune emphasizes that the story prioritizes Linus’s relationship with the orphaned children he investigates, illustrating how those connections enable personal growth.

Klune explained that he usually prioritizes story over romance, building narratives that include romantic elements rather than making them the main focus. In *Cerulean*, Linus initially believes he doesn’t need romance, but as he interacts with the children and Arthur, he begins to confront his own rigid existence and embrace change. This gradual character development enhances how naturally the romance unfolds.

Regarding time management, Klune shared insights from his experience as a full-time writer since leaving his secure job in 2016. He emphasized making informed decisions about transitioning to writing, and maintaining a disciplined writing schedule of four days a week and a target of five thousand words daily.

Describing *The House in the Cerulean Sea*, Klune expressed that it is a comedic fantasy set in a world where magical beings are seen as obstacles and regulated by authorities. The story follows Linus, a case worker who discovers the importance of viewing individuals for who they truly are and advocating for kindness and understanding in a discriminatory world.

The character Linus, described as rule-following yet lonely, serves as a vessel for exploring the quest for personal transformation. Klune found inspiration in portraying Linus as someone who, despite initial complacency, learns to stand up for what is right.

In developing the children on Marsyas Island, Klune strived to present them as authentically youthful, balancing their magical abilities with genuine childlike qualities. He invested considerable effort into crafting their distinct personalities, ensuring they reflect both the joy and struggles of being different in society.

On the theme of found family, Klune articulated its significance not only in his writing but also as a crucial aspect of life for many queer people, who often need to create supportive relationships outside their biological families. He believes that diverse voices in literature are essential for fostering empathy and understanding, especially in the realms of young adult fiction.

Furthermore, Klune aims to contribute to representation by depicting queer characters in stories that celebrate their complexity without relying solely on trauma or tragedy.

Regarding his upcoming YA novella, *The Extraordinaries*, Klune mentioned his desire to create a narrative centered around out and proud queer characters, diverging from typical coming-out stories. He aspires to deliver relatable portrayals of neurodiversity through the protagonist, Nick, who navigates his ADHD while embracing his identity.

Looking ahead, Klune has planned book tours to promote both *The House in the Cerulean Sea* and *The Extraordinaries*. Additionally, he has more projects in progress, including the final volume of the Green Creek series and more forthcoming novels into 2022.

In closing, Klune encouraged aspiring writers to persist through challenges and believe in their stories. He also shared some of his favorite books, emphasizing a diverse literary palette that inspires him.

Readers interested in Klune's upcoming works can follow his book tours and find more in-depth explorations of his narratives that challenge norms and celebrate the intricacies of personal identity.