In the context of queer, contemporary coming of age young adult stories this is a pinnacle of storytelling. The narrator being Aristotle, or Ari, takes us through a journey of self discovery that isn’t linear, and yet very beautiful and easy to follow. His emotions are deep and meaningful and every action he does or word he says is something that is understandable because of how real of a character he feels. Everything I’ve said about Ari also goes for Dante even if he’s not the one we’re seeing the story’s perspective from. He feels real and has understandable feelings and actions throughout the novel. 
The story takes place when both characters are 15 and we see them over the course of about a year where we get to watch two queer kids come to terms with themselves and each other at different paces. One thing I love about this book is how it’s not just a magical plot where both boys discover they love the other at the same time. Having Dante  understand that love a lot sooner than Ari creates such a unique and harrowing dynamic relationship for them. 
Overall I love this book and it will be awhile before I even begin to forget about the characters and their stories.