Visual Arts Unit - Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Benjamin Alire Sáenz is a famous author who writes amazing stories for kids and grown-ups. He was born in New Mexico, USA, in 1954. Sáenz writes about important things like friendship, love, and being true to yourself. One of his most famous books is called "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe." It's about two boys who become best friends and go on adventures together. Sáenz's books are loved by many people because they make us think and feel. So, if you love books that are full of heart and meaning, you should definitely check out Benjamin Alire Sáenz's stories!

Who is Benjamin Alire Sáenz?
What are some important things that Sáenz writes about?
What is one of Sáenz's most famous books?
What is "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" about?
Why are Sáenz's books loved by many people?

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a wonderful book written by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. It is a story about two boys named Aristotle and Dante who become unlikely friends. Set in the 1980s, this book takes us on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and understanding.

Aristotle, or Ari for short, is a loner who feels like he doesn't fit in. He's searching for answers about who he is and what the universe holds. Dante, on the other hand, is an open-minded and artistic boy who loves swimming. The two boys meet at the local swimming pool, and their friendship blossoms from there.

As Ari and Dante spend more time together, they start to discover the secrets of the universe. They explore their own identities, face challenges, and learn important life lessons along the way. This book beautifully captures the complexities of growing up and the importance of friendship.

What is the title of the book?
Who are the two main characters in the story?
Where does the story take place?
What are some themes explored in the book?
Why is friendship important in the story?

Visit to the Birthplace of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Hi, my name is Robbie and I am 8 years old. Today, I want to tell you about my awesome visit to the birthplace of Benjamin Alire Sáenz. He is an amazing author who wrote one of my favorite books called "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe."

We went to Benjamin Alire Sáenz's birthplace, which is in the city of Las Cruces, New Mexico, in the United States. It was so exciting to be in the same city where such a talented author was born! Las Cruces is a beautiful city with lots of interesting things to see and do.

While we were there, we also visited a famous tourist attraction called White Sands National Monument. It's a huge desert with stunning white sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. I felt like I was in a different world, walking on the soft sand and seeing the sparkling white landscape all around me.

What is the name of the author whose birthplace I visited?
Where is Las Cruces located?
What is the title of one of Benjamin Alire Sáenz's books?
What is the name of the tourist attraction we visited in Las Cruces?
How did the white sand dunes at White Sands National Monument make me feel?

Your Turn!

After reading Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, how about creating your own piece of writing based on the book? Perhaps you may prefer to write a book review of the book instead? Another idea might be to give a summary of the book or create a picture that summarises the book. Perhaps you could redesign the book cover? Whatever you or your teacher decides you try and do, good luck!