A sequel to “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe” by Benjamin Alire Sáenz takes readers on yet another journey of exploration, discovery, and defining the word we all sometimes fear – ‘yourself’. A continuation of a special bond between two teenagers lost in a world full of secrets, uncertainty, and injustice, who find comfort in each other while trying to figure out how to live their lives.
At the start of the novel readers are introduced to two teenage boys, Aristotle and Dante, both emotionally immature, unsure of who they are, and desperately looking for answers to all of their questions. The world has made them feel ashamed of themselves, each day makes them more insecure and forces them to hide their true identity. Society shows them, day by day, that they do not belong in the world, and the effects of that narration reveal their self-perception. As the story continues, the author slowly exposes more of their characteristics and allows the reader to grow, experience, and feel, all at the same time, as he takes us along on the journey.
Aristotle, who narrates the story, is nothing like an average teenager. It seems like he sees, feels, and experiences more than anyone else his age, and that often leads to overstimulation and self-doubt. The author shows him as often lost in his own mind. He seeks comfort and matureness, all while trying to overcome the obstacles and experiences he does not understand and is not yet prepared for. He matures a great deal during both of the books. Readers get to experience Ari as both a young teenage boy and a young man.
The book provides the readers with many metaphors, quotes, and thoughtful sentences. Benjamin Alire Sáenz is a skilled author, who not only shows the raw, real world; but represents the reality of many young people in a constant fight with society and themselves.
The novel is one of the most beautifully written and thoughtful books I’ve ever read. It portrays the constant battles during life, changing circumstances, constantly getting out of our comfort zones, and breaking the walls around us. Many emotions come and go as you read the book, and force new ideas to emerge as different thoughts. I loved the family dynamics, character development, and platonic love between the characters, but I have to say that the ending felt a little rushed. It didn’t fully meet my expectations as both of the volumes had been connected and felt in-depth with every emotion or event occurring, so the ending did not quite fit the rest of the books.
Overall the book was full of emotions, love and romance whilst also addressing important issues and being a guide for younger generations on how to go through life. I would recommend this book to everyone struggling with self-esteem, being confident in yourself and your relationships, and showing your true self to the world.
Some similar authors and their books that people who read “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe” and its sequel and, I think would enjoy, would be: “They Both Die at the End” by Adam Silvera or “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller.
