Immensely lyrical. I loved the emphasis on the dialogue, especially since communication is such a crucial theme of the book. This book is notable for its work of representation, especially in terms of what it means to be gay, Mexican-American, and even Texan. Aristotle's loss of innocence is poignantly captured through the important moments in his life--meeting Dante, saving Dante from the car, losing and then re-gaining Dante in his life. Most important, though, is the moment when Ari's parents finally reveal his brother's story, for it is only then that Ari can begin to live out his own life.