They Both Die at the End

When Death Cast calls, you know. But are you ever really prepared for that call? For Mateo and Rufus, though they know Death Cast could call any day, they are still unprepared for the day it happens. Death Cast is an app that is used to notify people that they have 24 hours or less left to live. It even has its own ringtone... and everyone knows it. 

Mateo is a bit of a lone-duck. His mother is gone, his father in a coma. His best friend has a toddler that he is Godfather to. He really doesn't get out much other than to visit his father. He plays video games; that is when he "gets out." He lives in safety. He doesn't take risks. His phone rings one night. He knows it's Death Cast.

Rufus is a leader. He leads a few people... a gang of sorts. He lives with his friends in a local orphanage. Rufus's ex-girlfriend is dating a new boy, who is talking serious smack about Rufus and his friends. As the brawl begins, Rufus gets the call. He doesn't want to answer the phone and wonders if they'll just give up. They don't. 

This story explores so many themes, social issues, and beliefs, it's just a great conversation starter for so many students. I love the depth of characters, despite knowing them for so little time, that we get from following them. This is an extraordinary story filled with love, hope, loss, and life. 

Works Cited

EpicReads. “Adam Silvera's Inspiration for They Both Die at the End.” YouTube, YouTube, 23 Aug. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VHOIGlGDQw.

“They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera.” Goodreads, Goodreads, 5 Sept. 2017, www.goodreads.com/book/show/33385229-they-both-die-at-the-end.