About This Book
This sequel to "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" continues the tender love story of Ari and Dante as they navigate their senior year of high school and the complexities of young adulthood. The novel delves into significant themes including first love, coming out, profound grief after the death of a parent, and confronting prejudice like homophobia and racism. It offers a deeply emotional and introspective look at identity, family bonds, and the courage it takes to live authentically. Parents should be aware of discussions around the AIDS crisis, homophobic violence, and a scene depicting a first sexual encounter, all handled with sensitivity appropriate for young adult readers.
High school seniors Aristotle and Dante find ways to spend time together despite being at different schools, having to keep their love secret, and nightly news of gay men dying from AIDS.
Concepts
Love & FamilySelf-Confidence & IdentitySadness & GriefLoneliness & BelongingFear & BraveryFriendship & LoyaltyEmpathy & KindnessResilience & PerseveranceFreedom & IndependenceJustice & FairnessAnger & FrustrationCuriosity & WonderDeath of a Loved OneBeing DifferentGrowing UpMaking FriendsCultural IdentityPeer PressureFriendship & Social
Discussion Prompts
1
How do Ari and Dante's individual journeys of self-discovery intertwine with their relationship?
2
The book explores different forms of prejudice, including homophobia and racism. How do Ari and his friends respond to these challenges?
3
Grief is a major theme in the story. How does Ari process the loss of his father, and how do others support him?
4
What does the painting and poem from the woman on the camping trip signify for Ari and Dante?
5
How do the characters in the book define "family," and how does Ari's understanding of his own family evolve?
External Reviews
NYT Bestseller
Young Adult Hardcover (6 weeks on list)
If Your Family Enjoyed This
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