Discovering the Universe Through Young Hearts: A Review of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
When I first stumbled upon Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, the title itself shone like a beacon, coaxing me into a journey I didn’t know I needed. The very introduction posed questions that had lingered in my own heart during tumultuous teenage years: “Why do we smile? Why are we sad and confused?” It resonated with me deeply, evoking that early-seventeen self who grappled with existential musings far sooner than expected. If only I had had this book back then—I can only imagine how comforting it would have been.
At the crux of this LGBTQ+ coming-of-age story are Ari and Dante, two boys searching for their identities against the backdrop of 1987 El Paso, Texas. The narrative beautifully explores their blossoming friendship, filled with understated yet profound moments that left an imprint on my heart. Ari, the introspective soul with a bravado that masks his vulnerabilities, contrasts with the effervescent Dante, whose outgoing nature and honesty shine like a guiding star. Their journey together encapsulates the turbulence of adolescence—struggles with family expectations, identity, and that ever-elusive search for belonging.
Sáenz’s writing style is nothing short of poetic, with lines that linger and resonate. I especially loved the moment when Ari reflects on his father’s scars—“Sometimes I think my father has all these scars. On his heart. In his head. All over.” This resonates on so many levels; it invites a conversation about mental health and the complex legacy of familial trauma, showing how invisible struggles often plague even the toughest exteriors.
Ari’s and Dante’s dynamic is riveting. Dante’s unabashed affection for Ari contrasts sharply with Ari’s fear of his own emotions—a beautifully depicted tension that many can relate to. It made me think of my own hesitance during my teenage years, where feelings often felt like tangled webs of confusion. The way they navigate their relationship, punctuated by confessions of love and moments of hurt, creates an emotionally charged atmosphere that is both refreshing and painfully real.
Memorable moments, like when Ari realizes he had long been in love with Dante without acknowledging it, brought tears to my eyes: “All this time I had been trying to figure out the secrets of the universe… My father was right. And it was true what my mother said. We all fight our own private wars.” These lines capture the essence of the human experience—our battles, unspoken desires, and ultimately, the revelations that guide us towards acceptance.
And can we take a moment to appreciate how much I adored the representation of supportive families? Ari’s relationship with his mother is so tender that at times, it had me on the brink of tears. Their honest conversations—“I hated her for that. And loved her.”—perfectly encapsulate the complexities of family ties, reminding me of my own relationships.
In conclusion, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a treasure of a read that I wholeheartedly recommend to everyone, especially teenagers grappling with their identities, and even adults looking to revisit the intricate labyrinth of adolescence. This book is not merely a story; it’s a reflective mirror inviting readers to explore their own feelings and experiences. Reading it felt like meeting a kindred spirit—one that has the power to change perspectives. Dive in, and perhaps you’ll discover not just the secrets of the universe, but your own heart along the way.
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