A review by the_broadway_slasher
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

emotional funny hopeful inspiring sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

I loved Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe so much. It’s a beautiful story about two young boys coming to terms with their love for each other in 1980s Texas. It paints a beautiful and relatable picture of adolescence that I found so real. It’s syrupy sweet but also interjected with many quiet moments of deep sorrow that anchor our characters down. I have to say that i especially found it relatable as a Mexican who struggled with a lot of the same inner-dialogue and societal expectations that Ari and Dante struggle with. My only problem is that at times the story seems too simple and I wish there was maybe just a little bit more conflict. Otherwise, a near perfect queer novel with a very unique and desperately needed voice.