Characters in Aristotle and Dante discover the secrets of the universe

Dante Quintana

Ari's open, funny opposite, who teaches him to swim and becomes his closest friend.

Also in Aristotle and Dante Dive Into the Waters of the World

Aristotle "Ari" Mendoza

A guarded fifteen-year-old confronting his family's silences and his own feelings.

Also in Aristotle and Dante Dive Into the Waters of the World

Jaime Mendoza

Ari's father, a Vietnam veteran who struggles to talk about his past.

Also in Aristotle and Dante Dive Into the Waters of the World

Lily Mendoza

Ari's warm, perceptive mother, a schoolteacher.

Sam Quintana

Dante's father, an English professor — open, affectionate, and expressive, in contrast to Ari's more guarded father.

Also in Aristotle and Dante Dive Into the Waters of the World

Soledad Quintana

Dante's mother, a therapist — quieter and more careful with her words than the rest of the family, but deeply loyal and loving.

Also in Aristotle and Dante Dive Into the Waters of the World