Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
Benjamin Alire Sáenz. Simon & Schuster, $16.99 (368p) ISBN 978-1-4424-0892-0
Fifteen-year-old Aristotle (Ari) has always felt lonely and distant from people until he meets Dante, a boy from another school who teaches him how to swim. As trust grows between the boys and they become friends (a first for Ari), Ari’s world opens up while they discuss life, art, literature, and their Mexican-American roots. Additionally, the influence of Dante’s warm, open family (they even have a “no secrets” rule) is shaping Ari’s relationship with his parents, particularly in regard to a family secret; Ari has an older brother in prison, who no one ever mentions. In a poetic coming-of-age story written in concise first-person narrative, Sáenz (Sammy and Juliana in Hollywood) crystallizes significant turning points in the boys’ relationship, especially as Ari comes to understand that Dante’s feelings for him extend beyond friendship. The story swells to a dramatic climax as Ari’s loyalties are tested, and he confronts his most deeply buried fears and desires. It’s a tender, honest exploration of identity and sexuality, and a passionate reminder that love—whether romantic or familial—should be open, free, and without shame. Ages 12–up. (Feb.)
Details
Reviewed on: 12/19/2011
Release date: 02/21/2012
Genre: Children's
Other - 256 pages - 9781442408944
Hardcover - 359 pages - 9781442408920
Compact Disc - 7 pages - 9781442366411
Paperback - 359 pages - 9781442408937
Prebound-Sewn - 368 pages - 9780606351171
Prebound-Glued - 359 pages - 9781627654500