TJ Klune: A Conversation about The House in the Cerulean Sea [S7 EP. 269]

Listen to the full episode below:

We’re wrapping up this year’s Camp BNT with a truly special guest: TJ Klune, the beloved author of The House in the Cerulean Sea. If you’ve been following along, you know what a treat it is for us to have conversations with the authors whose stories light up our classrooms—and let’s just say, this episode is more than we could ever hope for! 

Not only did we fangirl just a bit (okay, maybe a lot), but we also dove deep with TJ into what motivates him as a writer, why positive queer representation matters, and how his personal story as a neurodivergent, queer kid from rural Oregon shaped his work.

TJ shares how the teachers in his life were absolutely pivotal in shaping not only his writing but also his sense of self-worth. We also dive deep into the importance of seeing authentic, positive queer representation in literature, and why stories like The House in the Cerulean Sea are a lifeline for so many students—queer and straight alike.

This episode isn’t just an author interview—it’s a reminder of why books (and teachers!) matter so much. Whether you’re looking for classroom inspiration, validation of the impact you have on young readers, or just a heartfelt conversation about the transformative power of fiction, this chat with TJ Klune will absolutely fill your teacher soul.

topics discussed:

  • TJ Klune’s personal journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a bestselling author, influenced by impactful teachers and a love for books

  • The importance of accurate and positive queer representation in literature, and how TJ’s works provide hope and representation for marginalized youth

  • A deep dive into the origins and intent behind The House in the Cerulean Sea, plus possible questions and themes to explore with this text

  • TJ explains his writing process and why he centers ordinary, unlikely heroes—like Linus—in his books, making space for every reader to see themselves reflected.

  • An exploration of how fiction and stories can create empathy, challenge apathy, and spark crucial conversations about allyship, activism, and change—both inside and outside the classroom.

  • A sneak preview of TJ’s upcoming projects and advice for both readers and teachers on fostering inclusive, imaginative classroom communities.

resources:

Meet TJ:

TJ Klune is the #1 New York Times and #1 USA Today bestselling, Lambda Literary Award–winning author of The House in the Cerulean Sea, Under the Whispering Door, In the Lives of Puppets, the Green Creek Series for adults, the Extraordinaries Series for teens, and more. Being queer himself, Klune believes it's important—now more than ever—to have accurate, positive queer representation in stories.

Connect with TJ:

More Camp BNT 2025 Episodes:

More about Brave New Teaching:

Join hosts Amanda Cardenas (Mud & Ink Teaching) and Marie Morris (The Caffeinated Classroom) in discussions about being brave, trying new things, and all things teaching! As seasoned classroom teachers, Amanda and Marie bring their experience, insight, energy, and oh, so many opinions and ideas... It's time for all teachers to take their classroom and teaching practice into their own hands!

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