Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World by Benjamin Alire Saenz

Aristotle and Dante Discovers the Secret of the Universe is one of my favorite books, and I have to admit that I was a bit nervous that this sequel would somehow ruin my view of the first book, or simply just disappoint. But it didn’t. It so didn’t! I can’t tell you how happy I am that this sequel that I didn’t even know I needed is out in the world. It was just as brilliant, heartbreaking and beautiful as the first book, if not more!

Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World continues after the happy ever after- ending of the first book, showing the complexity and struggles with building a relationship and how to stay in love when the world doesn’t approve of it. Even though this sequel wasn’t even expected at the time of the first book, nor necessary in any way to complete the first part of the story, it was such a magical addition to it. I loved being back in Ari’s and Dante’s world again and to see their relationship develop, and see them continue to explore their identity and sexuality, while trying to find their place in the world.

In the first book I had some problem to connect with Ari at first, but here he just stole my heart right away since he was much more open. It’s amazing how much he’d grown and learned since the first book and how he developed even further, embracing the world in a completely new way, throughout this story.

“As I felt the beating of Dante’s heart against the palm of my hand, I wished I could somehow reach into my chest and rip out my own heart and show Dante everything that it held.”

The dialogues and writing style are absolutely remarkable. Almost every sentence in the book is quotable. And the side characters are all absolutely outstanding. One of my favorite aspects of the first book was the family dynamics and they were even better in the sequel. Both books in this series contain such beautiful portraits of all the parents and how they are real persons with their own sad stories, feelings and shortcomings.

The only part that didn’t blow me away was the ending. It felt really rushed, with some major events coming out of nowhere. Some parts also felt almost a bit cheesy in the way Benjamin Alire Sáenz really wanted to wrap things up and find some kind of happy ending for everyone. Like how a random guy at a party came out to his friends thanks to Ari in a way that didn’t feel authentic at all. But this is just a minor complaint, and overall I absolutely LOVED this book!

It was just as wonderful, painful and honest as the first book, but with some more added snarkiness and amazing character development. It also really appreciated how this book addressed some really important issues with the AIDS and Act Up references, weaving it into Ari’s and Dante’s struggles to dare to love without feeling shame. I called the first book one of the most intelligent YA books I’ve ever read, and this sequel deserves the same praise. Thank you Benjamin Alire Sáenz for writing this magical and unexpected gift! I can’t recommend this book enough!

Rating:
​5 stars

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