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A review by finnft4
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
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 absolutely loved this book (I have read it 6 times in the past half year, and it is the only book that
I've gone back and hyper-analyzed with annotations).
I know that it certainly has some flaws (some of the lines of narration are a bit... trite [mostly just reminding me of something I would write on my notes app when I was 11 - just a fake sense of profoundness that comes off as pretentious] and a certain part of the book is slow), but I just can't bring myself to give it anything below 5 stars.
For one, it read so well for me. This is one of the few books that flowed so naturally that it didn't feel like I was truly reading, if that makes sense. There wasn't that usual barrier between the reader and the novel that usually existed. The writing is light and humble, and easy to read in a good way. I'd especially recommend it to anyone in a reading slump.
I also felt a true connection to the characters. Each one had depth and made the story's exploration of friendships and family relationships that much deeper. I loved Ari as a narrator and protagonist (I personally related to his cheekiness and apathy), as well as his own character exploration and development. Dante was also fantastic, with his oftentimes foolish bravery and his estranged, isolated view of his culture.
The metaphor of "running" vs. "standing still" is brilliant and still leaves me in awe even after I've already read the book multiple times. I couldn't even write this review for months because it had left me speechless. I still can't get over the last few pages. Some of the best catharsis in pretty much anything ever.
Overall, it's an emotional coming-of-age story that has left an impact on me even months after I've finished it. It has one of the most satisfying conclusions out of any book I've ever read.
A truly great comfort book that, while imperfect, feels extremely refreshing.
I've gone back and hyper-analyzed with annotations).
I know that it certainly has some flaws (some of the lines of narration are a bit... trite [mostly just reminding me of something I would write on my notes app when I was 11 - just a fake sense of profoundness that comes off as pretentious] and a certain part of the book is slow), but I just can't bring myself to give it anything below 5 stars.
For one, it read so well for me. This is one of the few books that flowed so naturally that it didn't feel like I was truly reading, if that makes sense. There wasn't that usual barrier between the reader and the novel that usually existed. The writing is light and humble, and easy to read in a good way. I'd especially recommend it to anyone in a reading slump.
I also felt a true connection to the characters. Each one had depth and made the story's exploration of friendships and family relationships that much deeper. I loved Ari as a narrator and protagonist (I personally related to his cheekiness and apathy), as well as his own character exploration and development. Dante was also fantastic, with his oftentimes foolish bravery and his estranged, isolated view of his culture.
Overall, it's an emotional coming-of-age story that has left an impact on me even months after I've finished it. It has one of the most satisfying conclusions out of any book I've ever read.
A truly great comfort book that, while imperfect, feels extremely refreshing.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Car accident and Homophobia
Minor: Murder, Suicidal thoughts, Transphobia, and War