Summary

"Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is a highly recommended young adult fantasy novel that explores deep themes of friendship, identity, and self-discovery through the lives of two Mexican-American teenagers, Aristotle and Dante.

Abstract

The article passionately recommends "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe," highlighting it as an essential read for its heartwarming and realistic portrayal of youth. The novel, praised for its relatable protagonist Aristotle and his profound friendship with Dante, delves into themes of LGBTQ+ identity and diversity, set against a backdrop of supportive family relationships. The story's realism, combined with its poetic and engaging narrative, makes it an ideal summer read. The author's ability to create authentic characters and a touching storyline has led to the book being celebrated as a standout piece of young adult literature, with an ending that provides a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

Opinions

The book's summary is intriguing, suggesting a story that has the potential to significantly impact readers.
The cover and title are considered visually appealing and enticing, inviting readers to explore the secrets Aristotle and Dante uncover.
Aristotle's character is seen as highly relatable, particularly in his portrayal of teenage angst and identity confusion.
The inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes and Mexican-American characters is refreshing and adds diversity to the young adult genre.
The realistic depiction of family dynamics, particularly the supportive role of parents, is a departure from typical young adult tropes and is highly praised.
The story is described as beautiful and breath-taking, with a depth that goes beyond the surface themes.
The book is recommended as a perfect summer read for its light, relatable, and poetic qualities.
The friendship between Ari and Dante is valued above any romantic undertones, setting them up as aspirational friendship goals.
The ending of the novel is considered to be beautifully crafted, leaving readers with a sense of completeness.
A quote from the book emphasizes the narrative's exploration of unexpected emotional depth, reinforcing the novel's impact.

The Heart-Warming, Realistic YA Fantasy Everyone Should Read

10 reasons why YOU should read ‘Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe’ by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Title: Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Author: Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Publication Date: February 21st 2012

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

Part of a Series?: Yes, Book 2 is coming sometime in future!

Genres: Young adult, Contemporary

Today I’m going to tell you, people, 10 reasons why you should read the awesomeness called as ‘Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe’ by ‘Benjamin Alire Sáenz’ and be happy with life!

1. The summary

Aristotle is an angry teen with a brother in prison. Dante is a know-it-all who has an unusual way of looking at the world. When the two meet at the swimming pool, they seem to have nothing in common. But as the loners start spending time together, they discover that they share a special friendship — the kind that changes lives and lasts a lifetime. And it is through this friendship that Ari and Dante will learn the most important truths about themselves and the kind of people they want to be.

Does it not sound so awesome! Before I pick up a book, I usually see the cover and read the summary. These two factors are super important in determining the fate of the book. Either I’ll put it back on the shelf(or press on the back button) or I’ll adopt it so that it can meet a loving and growing family of books that live in my bookshelf, peacefully.

2. The cover and the title

Omigosh! you judge a book by it’s cover! You are so bad!

Oh, please! Everyone does that. If you say that you don’t, you’re either ‘too good for the world’ or lying. This book has a super gorgeous cover! The colours are so pretty! And the title is so enigmatic and mysterious, that you are curious that what all secrets will Ari and Dante discover.

3. Aristotle is SO relatable

This is one of the best ‘coming of age‘ story I have read! Especially, Aristotle depicts teenage angst so perfectly. His confusions regarding his identity, his self and his family are so perfectly written by the author. His muddled up and jumbled internal monologue is very understandable!

4. LGBTQ+ theme and diversity

After reading tons of books with ‘white girls falling for white dudes’, this book is like a breath of fresh air. However, I wish we could have got a little glimpse of Dante’s mindset when he discovered his sexuality. Also, the characters of the book are Mexican Americans, scoring anther point with me.

5. It’s so realistic

Family. Relationships. Internal monologue. Confusion. Teenage.

The author has infused a sense of realism in the elements of the book. I felt such a beautiful bond with the characters and the book because everything felt so real!

6. Parents are adorable

In the young adult genre, parents are rarely given attention. IN the majority of the cases, either they are negligent or dead, causing emotional trauma to the main character and shaping them into a strong person. BUT in this book, all the parents are supportive and adorable and caring! I love everyone so very much. Especially, Ari’s mother. I just fell in love with her.

7. The story is so gorgeous

It’s a beautiful and breath-taking story about a guy who is going through identity confusion during adolescence and is trying to figure about who he is and where he stands in this world. However, it is much more than this.

8. Perfect summer read

This book is perfect for summers. It is beautiful, light, relatable, warm, poetic and short. 2020 sucks already. This book can add some sweetness to this end-of-the-world-situation.

9. Ari and Dante are friendship goals

I think I’m the only one who doesn’t ship them romantically. I love their friendship. They are very opposite to each other, yet very similar. (Both of them don’t watch TV)

10. The ending

The ending is beautiful. Everything and everyone coming in terms with everything and everyone. It's just perfect! It leaves you with a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment. 100/100 would recommend.

To rest my case, I suggest you read this beautiful quote from the book. “Another secret of the universe: Sometimes the pain was like a storm that came out of nowhere. The clearest summer could end in a downpour. Could end in lightning and thunder.” Brilliant, right?