They Both Die at the End
#1 of 3 in Death-Cast Series
on Goodreads (817,569)
What’s inside...
On September 5, a little after midnight, Death-Cast calls Mateo Torrez and Rufus Emeterio to give them some bad news: They’re going to die today. Mateo and Rufus are total strangers, but, for different reasons, they’re both looking to make a new friend on their End Day. The good news: There’s an app for that. It’s called the Last Friend, and through it, Rufus and Mateo are about to meet up for one last great adventure—to live a lifetime in a single day. Adam Silvera reminds us that there’s no life without death and no love without loss in this devastating yet uplifting story about two people whose lives change over the course of one unforgettable day.
Character compass
Mateo Torrez
Rufus Emeterio
Aimee Dubois
Lidia Vargas
Malcolm Anthony
Tagoe Hayes
Peck
Discussion points
How did the idea of knowing the exact day you will die impact the decisions made by Mateo and Rufus?
What did you learn about the value of friendship through the relationship between the two main characters?
In what ways did the characters change from the beginning to the end of the story, and what do you think prompted these changes?
How does the story challenge or reinforce your thoughts about fate and free will?
If you had one last day to live, what would be the most important thing you would want to do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s themes of mortality and friendship. Listen actively and validate their feelings. Draw parallels from the book to real-life decisions and friendships to make the conversation more relatable. Discuss the importance of making every day meaningful, and how the characters' experiences might influence their own choices in life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cherishing every moment
Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of valuing every day as the characters face their last day on Earth.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of appreciating life and making the most of the time they have with family and friends.
Example Lesson: Building meaningful relationships
Explanation: As the characters forge a deep connection under the pressure of their limited time, the story illustrates the value of profound human relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cultivate meaningful friendships and empathize with others, understanding that relationships enrich our lives.
Example Lesson: Confronting fears
Explanation: The protagonists deal with the ultimate fear — the end of their lives, which inspires bravery and resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children face their own fears and challenges more boldly and with confidence.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of life’s uncertainties
Explanation: The concept of not knowing when we will die underpins the narrative, teaching readers to accept uncertainty.
Real-World Application: This can help children to understand and accept that not everything in life is predictable or controllable.