This book is character-driven vacation with some deep substance to it. When people talk about books as palate cleansers, THIS is what I want them to mean: Something well-written, light, happy, and with just enough conflict to create reasons to root for the characters. A book that leaves your heart feeling wrapped in a sturdy, squeezy, anxiety-calming HUG.

This book is so sweet and cozy and cheerful and homey! I loved every minute in this unnamed country, with this rag-tag found family of ostracized kids. I'm not going to say another word about any of the kids -- it would steal some of your delight when you meet them. Go into this one as fresh as you can!

The main character, Linus, is an absolute dear! He's a true everyman, just doing the best he can with what he has, trying so hard to do everything by the book, until he meets those who never have and never will fit into the book. At all.

He is kind, thoughtful, thorough, and open-hearted. His chemistry with the kids is pure sweetness, and he treats each one with the dignity and kindness they deserve, even though he's quite discombobulated when he meets them.

And when push comes to shove, he can certainly hold his own! His character arc is wonderful, and he finds that he does, indeed, have a rather sturdy backbone. 

I loved it and can't wait to read the next one in the series!