A review by carrot2025
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

emotional funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced

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

5.0

I can absolutely see why this book has so many awards and deserves to so many more. It was an incredible read with a lot of heartfelt moments that really showed the challenges of being young and realizing your gay. So many times I was left crying and feeling for the characters. Watching them struggle and change and grow. It was all amazing and I highly recommend it to everyone.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Murder, Homophobia, Transphobia, and Hate crime

Moderate: Car accident

Minor: Toxic relationship and Death

I think this story is absolutely amazing at handling a lot of different triggering topics in a way that's respectful and is actually useful to the story.

I think the use of the Aristoles brother killing a transvestite was perfectly handled. It didn't go into too much detail and it gave a lot of context for why his partner were so hesitant to talk about Aristoles aunt being gay. A lot of the homophobia mentioned isn't too detailed but it really helps give context to the time period and gives an important insight into the characters and why they act the way they do.