#five-stars

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe (2012) Benjamin Alire Sánez ★★★★★

“Another secret of the universe: Sometimes pain was like a storm that came out of nowhere. The clearest summer could end in a downpour. Could end in lightning and thunder.”

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a novel I will never forget. It is by far one of the most beautiful tales told. 

There are many things about this novel that make it perfect.

The first thing is the writing. Benjamin Alire Sánez has a way of writing that is so lyrical and beautiful. This is especially present in Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. His words naturally flow. But even without that the lines and quotes in Aristotle and Dante never fail to miss there mark. It’s punch after punch with this god damn novel. To top that off, the writing does not once comes across as pretentious or force, which tend to happen a lot in Young Adult writing (I’m looking at you John Green). 

Then we have Aristotle “Ari” and Dante themselves. Ari and Dante’s characterisations are on par, if not better, than most of literature’s greats.  They’re so deep, complex and real I was amazed this wasn’t based of a true story. This complexity of character really added to their relationship as well. It was the founding of it, to be honest. 

Then we have the relationship. W-O-W! Ari and Dante were meant to be. There slow-build relationship was one of the best managed parts of this novel, and trust me that is saying something. I have never been so in love with a relationship in my life. It was an adorable, heartfelt and supportive relationship - we need more of this is literature. 

I think lastly is the plot. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a fantastic novel and an amazing coming-of-age love story that powerfully tackles the idea of toxic masculinity and internalised homophobia, which lay hidden deep within the pages of this extraordinary novel. 

Eyes of Silver, Eyes of Gold by Ellen O’Connell

5 stars. This is a story about two innocent people who are swept away by circumstances and ruthlessly lynched by hate-filled people. They learn to love despite having been failed on every front by their closest family and friends. This story describes a deep love beyond attraction: love is sacrifice, surrender, survival, suffering, redemption, and above all - family.

Frequently, a “happily ever after” glosses over the trials and tribulations of love and relies on the reader to imagine a perfect happiness. This intricate plot steadily deals numerous events that remind us all that love is very hard work, and is in the doing, not in the telling. This romance is as satisfying as a life well-lived. An excellent read.

(Spoilers below) some criticisms:

Okay, like, whaaaaaat?????

Today’s edit is for Fall Out Girl by: L. Duarte 

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