Review: Aristotle and Dante Dive Into the Waters of the World

Title: Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World

Author: Benjamin Alire Saenz

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Publication date: October 12, 2021

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Summary

For most of his life, Ari has been okay with blending into the background and staying invisible. However, that all changed when he met Dante. Since falling in love with him, something in Ari has made him want to engage. Make new friends. Stand up for things he believes in. Yes, Dante infuriates him, but Ari also loves him.

Ari and Dante are trying to make their relationship work in a world that doesn’t believe they should have one. And when tragedy strikes Ari’s life, he’ll have to work to find joy in life once again. The journey there won’t be easy, but luckily, Ari will have Dante to help him find that joy again. As well as his new friends and his new support system.

Review: Aristotle and Dante Dive Into the Waters of the World

Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for an advanced copy of this to review! I remember loving Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe back when it came out, so I was excited to dive into this one. Especially because it has an absolutely gorgeous cover!

This book picks up pretty much where the first one left off, if I remember correctly. It’s been quite a while since I read the first book. What’s great about these books are definitely the characters. Like Ari, you’ll fall in love with Dante, his quirky personality, the way he doesn’t seem to care what other people think. The side characters are also well developed, creating a cast you’re sure to fall in love with.

However, this book is very slow moving. Usually, I’m fine with slow moving books, but I just had a hard time getting into this narrative. Maybe it’s because it’s been too long since I read the first book. I don’t know. I’m not sure this book needs to be as long as it is, as pieces of the plot definitely feel like they drag a bit. There are beautiful moments, and I wish we had more of a chance to focus on those.

Despite the length, there are absolutely lyrical moments throughout the book. I do wish we got to see more of Dante throughout the book, as this is definitely more focused on Ari’s journey. But, if you loved the first book, I’m sure you’ll be just as hooked in this one.

3/5 stars