Book Review: Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
As I flipped through the pages of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, I found myself transported back to those turbulent teenage years—filled with question marks and soul-searching dilemmas. Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s beautiful, lyrical prose struck a chord deep in my heart, almost as if he were echoing the very questions I grappled with in my own youth. “Why do we smile? Why do we laugh?” These profound inquiries brought back memories of my own confusions, reminding me that I was not alone in my struggles.
At its core, this novel is a poignant coming-of-age story centered around two boys—Aristotle “Ari” Mendoza and Dante Quintana. Each character is woven from threads of loneliness, curiosity, and the quest for identity. Ari, with his internal battles, often feels alienated and burdened by unspoken thoughts. Meanwhile, Dante’s open-heartedness and inquisitive nature provide a counterbalance, inviting Ari—and readers along with him—into a deeper exploration of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
Sáenz masterfully illustrates the complexities of adolescence, touching on themes of familial scars and emotional armor. One passage that stuck with me speaks volumes about vulnerability: “Sometimes I think my father has all these scars. On his heart. In his head. All over.” It’s a raw acknowledgment of unspoken trauma, shedding light on how our experiences shape us, even when they remain hidden beneath the surface.
The dynamic between Ari and Dante is electric. At first, their contrasting personalities lead to a misunderstanding, but as their friendship develops, it grows into something profound and transformative. Their conversations feel authentically teenage—filled with inside jokes and moments of laughter that feel so utterly relatable. I found myself smiling when Dante asked, “How many burgers did you flip to buy the book?” and Ari’s earnest response. Their relatable banter warmed my heart, reminding me of friendships that have shaped my own journey.
While the themes of love and longing permeate the narrative, Sáenz doesn’t shy away from the weighty aspects of growing up, such as familial expectations and societal pressures. The tenderness in Ari’s relationship with his mother is particularly moving, showcasing a bond characterized by both love and frustration. I could relate to his sentiment: “I hated her for that. And loved her.” It’s a beautiful, messy reflection on the complexities of parent-child relationships, something that resonated with me deeply.
Sáenz’s writing is rich in poetic imagery, laced with philosophical undertones. It urges you to pause and reflect on life’s essential questions, making it a must-read for anyone who has ever felt lost or misunderstood. As I turned the final pages—and trust me, the ending left me both sobbing and smiling—I couldn’t help but think how significant this book could be for teens navigating their own private wars.
In conclusion, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is not just a story of friendship or love; it’s a lifeline for anyone feeling the weight of their own questions. I wholeheartedly recommend it to young adults and those who carry a piece of their teenage selves within them. This book captures the beauty of life’s uncertainties and the courage it takes to embrace them. If I had read this in my teens, I might have discovered the secrets of my own universe a little sooner. And who knows? Perhaps you’ll find yours within these pages too. ✨
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