The First to Die at the End
#2 of 3 in Death-Cast Series
on Goodreads (104,604)
What’s inside...
In this prequel to #1 New York Times bestselling phenomenon They Both Die at the End, two new strangers, Orion Pagan and Valentino Prince, meet and spend a life-changing day together after one of them receives a call from Death-Cast predicting their death. Orion, who has a serious heart condition, and Valentino, who is restarting his life in New York, navigate their feelings and the uncertainty of their futures. As they explore the city and their deep connection, they face the reality that their time together might be cut short. The story, told with Adam Silvera’s bittersweet touch, explores the impact of relationships and the importance of living life to the fullest.
Discussion points
What emotions did you feel when reading about the characters' experiences? Can you relate to any of them?
How do you think knowing the date of your death would change the way you live your life?
If you had the opportunity, would you want to know your own future? Why or why not?
What lessons can we learn about valuing our time and relationships from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book's various scenarios. Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how different characters may feel in certain situations. Use examples from your own life to make connections to the book’s themes, fostering a deeper understanding. Ask your child how they might act differently if faced with similar circumstances as the characters, prompting critical thinking and personal reflection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The narrative explores deep connections formed between characters under extreme circumstances, emphasizing the importance of trust and support.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to build and maintain supportive friendships, understanding the importance of helping and trusting friends in various situations.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Acceptance of Mortality
Explanation: The book discusses impending death from the beginning, encouraging characters—and readers—to appreciate the present and embrace life fully despite its inevitable end.
Real-World Application: This can help children grasp the concept of mortality in a healthy way, promoting maturity and emotional resilience as they acknowledge and appreciate life's transient nature.
Example Lesson: Courage in the Face of Fear
Explanation: Characters in the story often face their fears as they come to terms with their fates, teaching bravery and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by facing their own fears, whether it pertains to trying new activities or standing up in challenging situations, fostering personal growth and bravery.
Example Lesson: Making Ethical Decisions
Explanation: The plot pushes characters to make difficult choices that test their morals, highlighting the complexity of ethical decision-making.
Real-World Application: This lesson equips children to think critically about right and wrong and the consequences of their decisions in everyday interactions and choices.
Example Lesson: Living Life to the Fullest
Explanation: The imminent end that characters face inspires them to live their lives to the fullest, a lesson woven throughout the narrative.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate every moment and are encouraged to seize the day, fostering a zest for life and an appreciation for the present moment.