“Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe” is a young adult fiction novel about two Mexican-American teens living in El Paso, Texas. The book is full of emotion, hopefulness and self-discovery. It is known as an international best-selling love story. This coming-of-age novel follows two main characters Aristotle “Ari” Mendoza and Dante Quintana who build a special bond that helps them learn about their lives. The book isn’t always the happiest, but that is what makes it real. 

This is one of the most meaningful books I have read. Relating to characters going through similar struggles as me while also being in high school gave me a sense of motivation. “I got to thinking that poems were like people. Some people you got right off the bat. Some people you just didn’t get- and never would get,” said Aristotle Mendoa. I remember this quote sticking with me when I read this book for the first time. 

Truthfully, this book was recommended to me by my sister and I put off reading it for a while. After reading it I would recommend this novel for the diversity and realism. It’s the perfect summer read.