They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The enjoyment I received from this book was a complete surprise!
The story is set in an alternative reality, where an early-hours phone from a mysterious organisation called Death Cast informs people they will die that day. The two main characters, Mateo and Rufus, both receive calls. They connect via an app for the soon-to-be deceased, and spend their last day together. These two young men explore their city, their minds, and their hearts, as they ride the subway and Rufus’ bike around New York.
The narrative alternates between each character, giving the reader insight into what they think of each other, what they think of themselves, and what emotions they are struggling with during their last day on earth.
All the adventures they undertake carry risks, reminding the reader of how many near misses each of us have each day. Reminding us how precious life is.
I connected with Mateo and Rufus as people, and their plight, and was emotionally invested in their story. Even though I knew the ending form the start.
This is a smart and original story from Adam Silvera. I highly recommend this book for lovers of YA queer lit, or speculative queer lit, or any queer lit!
David McK Writes 