Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Amazon. (n.d.). Aristotle and Dante
discover the secrets of the
universe [digital image]. Retrieved
October 24, 2016 from https://www.
amazon.com/Aristotle-Dante-Discover-
Secrets-Universe/dp/1442408936 

YA READS:

Sáenz, B.A. (2012). Aristotle and Dante discover the secrets of the universe. New York: Simon & Schuster. ISBN 978-0-605-53288-5; $16.50 (Perma-Bound).

Have you ever felt unsure of yourself or uncomfortable in a room full of people?  Have you ever felt like communicating with your parents is more difficult than taking a trigonometry test while blindfolded?  Have you ever kept a secret because you were afraid to admit the truth?  If so, then you will be able to commiserate with the characters in this coming of age novel.  Aristotle and Dante are both Mexican American teenagers growing up in the southwest in the 1980s, and both have their fair share of struggles.  Ari has a father who doesn’t talk much, and especially not about his experiences in Vietnam.  Ari is much like his father: emotionally closed off.  Dante, on the other hand, is an open book, but this makes others uncomfortable.  Their friendship comes to a turning point after Ari saves Dante’s life by pushing him out of the path of an out-of-control car, taking the brunt of the hit himself.  Dante realizes his true feelings for Aristotle: feelings of love.  Both boys must eventually come to terms with their own identities.  So while Dante and Aristotle attempt to Discover the Secrets of the Universe, they’ll end up discovering secrets within their own hearts as well.

AWARDS (according to Goodreads.com):

* Stonewall Book Award for Children’s and Young Adult Literature (2013)

* Michael L. Printz Award Nominee (2013

* Pennsylvania Young Readers' Choice Award Nominee for Young Adults (2015)

* Lambda Literary Award for LGBT Children's/Young Adult (2013)

* Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award (ALAN/NCTE) Nominee (2013)

* Pura Belpré Award for Narrative (2013)

HOMEMADE TEES: There are many shirts to be had in the genre of LGBTQ pride.  However, a true fan of this particular book would stick to one of Saenz's beautiful quotes - the man is, indeed, a nationally recognized poet for good reason!  This one is available at RedBubble:

Shannell C. (n.d.). All of the
mysteries of the universe
[digital image]. Retrieved October
24, 2016 from http://tinyurl.com/hhh5jnp