Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a coming-of-age novel by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, about a Mexican-American teenager named Ari and the special connection he develops with a boy his age, Dante, as well as their relationships with their parents and their journeys to find their true identities. The story takes place in the late 1980s in El Paso, Texas. One summer, when 15-year-old Ari goes to the swimming pool, he meets Dante, who says he can teach Ari how to swim. Though they have completely different personalities, the two lonely souls quickly come together as they begin to learn more about each other. Their relationship comes to a turning point when Ari saves Dante from a car crash. Ari is seriously injured and spends the rest of the summer in hospital. When school starts, Dante moves to Chicago with his family because of his father’s job; during this period of time, Ari struggles with his family issues while Dante realizes his sexuality. They grow separately on their own paths, and mainly communicate by letters. The following summer, when Dante returns to El Paso and they reunite, their friendship shifts to a romantic relationship. Ari also becomes closer with his parents, and finally asks them about the past of his brother, which he has been too afraid to ask before. By the end of the book, Ari gradually embraces his true self through the help of his family and his relationship with Dante.

Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s writing style was impressive in this novel. He applied many short, concise sentences that communicate deep feelings to the readers in a direct way. At the same time, the author depicted Ari’s inner thoughts vividly, allowing us to see the world through Ari’s eyes. This book’s significance was displayed in various ways: it certainly provided support for people who were exploring their sexuality, considering the fact that it was published before same-sex marriage became legal throughout the United States (2015). On the other hand, it also addresses coming of age, racial problems, and Mexican-Americans’ association with Mexican culture.

Did the plot (for fiction) or presentation of information (for nonfiction) keep you interested?   

Yes, the plot moved pretty smoothly. The story was told through Ari’s perspective, his character arc was clear with several turning points involved, and we could see his growth and struggles clearly. 

Was the pace of the book too fast, too slow, or just right?

I believe the pace was just right. The author focused on the interaction between Ari and Dante in the two summers and spent fewer chapters on the year they were apart; hence we were able to feel the dynamic between them and how it changes throughout the book.

What grade level(s) is this book appropriate for? 

It’s appropriate for highschoolers, because both protagonists are high school students, and there is some swearing and violence.

What type of reader would you recommend this book to? 

I would recommend this book to teenagers who are going through puberty and exploring their identities. I would also recommend it to readers who love a beautiful writing style. 

I would rate this book 5 stars: it is nicely written and deeply touching. When reading this book, I can relate with the protagonist’s whimsical thoughts as a teenager. I got to know more about Mexican Americans’ lives too, since I had never read a book with a Mexican-American protagonist. Lastly, I could always empathize with the characters, being able to understand their ups and downs.