A review by jpanslabyrinthofbooks
The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

5.0

"Maybe that's what life was. You zigged and you zagged and zigged and zagged some more."

Saenz perfectly describes the honest perceptions of life beautifully through this quote. Life doesn't have a linear path; there will always be twists and turns along the way. There will be obstacles. Some of those will be easy to hurdle over. Others will feel like you're crawling. And in this book, there is a tremendous focus on self-discovery in youth. Dictating your path. Choosing who YOU want to be.

I already feel very connected with this book, not only playing on the themes of identity and friendship but also family, morals and values. There is a profound focus on the morality of familyhood and whether family is solely biological or being nurtured. The characters growth, Salvador and Samantha mostly, is incredibly justifiable to the notions of youth and the turmoil and ecstatic tribulations of discovering yourself. Experiencing all-sorts of emotions and not being in control, at the age of seventeen, is something relatable to all individuals.

The major thing that made this book truly inspiring was the lack of romance; I didn't want there to be a huge focus on romance. The refreshing nature of solely focusing on friendship and family was exactly what I needed. I do love romance. But I don't think every novel needs romanticisation.

Saenz has crafted a book that encapsulates the idea of identity for its entirety; the moments, the struggles and the 'growing up' that every youth experiences.