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They Both Die at the End
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They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera (YA BOM) Starts 12 November 2017
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At NRBC we use a more structured approach to our BOMs. We have a discussion leader and a reading date is set to start the book. A reading schedule is posted prior to the start date and discussion questions are posted each day regarding that section of the book.
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(last edited Nov 18, 2017 10:38PM)
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Date Chapters Pages
Nov 12&13 Mateo 12:22 a.m - Mateo 4:26 a.m 3 - 121
Nov 14&15 Mateo 4:58 a.m. - Mateo 1:52 p.m. 122 - 250
Nov 16 **Break Day**
Nov 17&18 Rufus 2:12 p.m. - end 251 - 368
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Book of the Month
~ Ruby Coin How to Earn:
1 Ruby Coin for half DQ participation 1 Ruby Coin for Writing Disscussion Questions 1 Ruby Coin for completing ALL days DQs within month of BOM startExample of ways to Earn Ruby Coins: (view spoiler)
Learn about Gem coins here
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i’ve already begun reading this book. if i put it aside until you guys reach where i’m at, will i still be able to participate?
Ariel in disguise wrote: "i’ve already begun reading this book. if i put it aside until you guys reach where i’m at, will i still be able to participate?"I think you can read ahead, I usually do lol
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There's no problem with participating whenever. Just try to avoid spoilers for parts that haven't come yet. (or put them in tags.)
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If so, list a day preference if you have one.
I'll do first day :)Yes, I am back from zombieland :o)
I just recently joined this group, and I will be buying this book within a few days. I was wondering if someone could explain the steps to this, and what the coins are. Thank you.
Hey Autumn, welcome to the group.To join the discussion is as simple as read the book and pipe in :)
To help the discussion we split the book into sections, and for each one, a volunteer writes up a few questions/comments, which in turn we answer/comment/discuss/etc.
Coins are our version of badges. There are a few colors that represent participation in BOM readings, challenges, team challenges, special events, and so on.
For BOMs they're the Ruby ones. For this particular reading, we have 6 days worth of questions (it may change if we don't have enough volunteers).
That means
3 days answering questions - 1 coin
6 days answering questions - 2 coins
If you write DQ's, you get another coin.
Rules and where to claim them /brag about them can be found on this link
Hope it makes sense. I've been working overtime for the last month, o things like proper English and grammar are almost non-existent.
I'll do the last day!
Sonia wrote: "Hey Autumn, welcome to the group.To join the discussion is as simple as read the book and pipe in :)
To help the discussion we split the book into sections, and for each one, a volunteer writes ..."
I've only done one BoM Discussion with NBRC so far for Anansi Boys. I thought it was 1 coin for participating in either half or full discussion, I guess I miss read that? If you answer all the questions within the month you get 2 coins instead of 1? For some reason, I thought you only received 2 coins if you had full participation and wrote questions. Just want to clarify for the future reads, thanks.
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Breakdown is here
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Mateo 12:22 a.m - Mateo 4:26 a.m
(chapters 1-21 on audio)
1. Such an interesting concept for a book. Do you think they really do "die at the end" or are you still holding out some hope?
2. Have you read any other books by this author? Why did you decide to join this read?
3. What are your thoughts on Mateo and Rufus? Can you relate to either or do you have a favourite?
4. I wasn't expecting Andrea's POV, I thought it would just rotate between Mateo and Rufus. I think it will be really interesting to hear more from her and that complete opposite point of view. Your thoughts?
5. The idea of the apps was not surprising! I was expecting a bit more explanation of Death-Cast by now. I keep wondering how it is that not only can they pin point the date of death, but also one you know, how do you not change the course of history?
Mateo would have otherwise spent the day at home (right?!). Is it a "self fulfilling prophecy" or is the concept that no matter what you do you will die as it is just fate?
6. Further to the above what stops people from not going crazy on their last day? Robbing banks, killing enemies etc.? Where are the societal parameters?
7. Ok, gotta ask. What would you do with your last day?
Comments and Question AnswersMateo 12:22 a.m - Mateo 4:26 a.m
(chapters 1-21 on audio)
1. Having already read the whole book, no comment ;)
2. No, I haven't read other books by this author. I joined this particular read for 2 reasons, 1) the concept is interesting and 2) my library happened to have the audio available.
3. I'm definitely a Mateo I'm one of those people who is home a lot and doesn't have many friends.
4. She kind of irritated me at first, but I see where she fits in.
5. I think it's supposed to be an embrace your fate thing, especially since you don't find out until the actual day of your death.
6. I think what stops people from doing crazy things is the fear of a painful/violent death. Otherwise, I don't know!
7. With my last day, I'd say goodbye to the people I love and just have fun, probably binge read lol.
DQ answers 1. As i️ have completed this book already (literally last night) i️ cannot speak for this question
2. this was my first Adam Silvera book and i️ must day i️ enjoy his way of writing. I️ chose to join this read as I️ had just begun reading the book at the beginning of the month before seeing it was going to be a BOM and so now that i️ have finished it, i️ just plan on participating in the discussions without spoiling anything the best I️ can.
3. I️ really like the characteristics of both Mateo and Rufus. I️ personally feel I️ connect more with Mateo as I️ am kind of a homebody and only have at most 3 amazing friends, also too I️ fee i️ relate to Mateo in the sense that we both have experienced life without a parent in the picture and the other being seriously ill to the point of hospitalization.
4. Having Andrea’s POV come into play was interesting and feel it adds nicely to the story because you are able to see that even though it is her job to tell people they will be dying, she does still have emotion.
5. I️ would have liked to have more info on Death-Cast as well. I️ feel the entire purpose of it though is to give you the heads up that you will not be surviving to see another morning and it gives you a chance to make amends with anyone or anything in your life and to simply say goodbye to those who matter most to you. I️ know if I️ had the choice, I️ would like to be warned that I️ should prepare my family for a world without me.
6. As far as societal parameters go and why people wouldn’t start committing crimes on their End Day, I️ believe it is because there is always that risk that some freak accident can occur causing their demise. People are playing it safe to ensure they can make the most of their final hours.
7. I️f I️ were to receive the call, I️ would immediately tell my loved ones and say my goodbyes and probably would try to overcome some of my fears and just live my day to the fullest accepting what is to come.
1. Such an interesting concept for a book. Do you think they really do "die at the end" or are you still holding out some hope?Already listened to this (audible) But going into it I was hoping the title wasn't lying to me.
2. Have you read any other books by this author? Why did you decide to join this read?
I have not. I have heard good things about him. This one I chose to read because it sounded like an interesting concept, and I've seen a couple booktubers get really emotional about it. I also listened to the sample and the voice for Mateo stuck with me so I decided to get it.
3. What are your thoughts on Mateo and Rufus? Can you relate to either or do you have a favourite?
Mateo sounds sweet, I don't know why but the voice for him makes me want to meet him, to protect him. I thought him a little too paranoid but otherwise I wanted to coddle. Rufus, was also sweet, but his lingo bugged me, the amount of times he says "mad" infuriates me, but his inner dialogue and his passion for photography made me melt.
4. I wasn't expecting Andrea's POV, I thought it would just rotate between Mateo and Rufus. I think it will be really interesting to hear more from her and that complete opposite point of view. Your thoughts?
I get it and it added a fresh perspective of someone choosing to live life normally after finding out (denying or not) they were going to die that day. But I just wanted to hear more from our two main characters.
5. The idea of the apps was not surprising! I was expecting a bit more explanation of Death-Cast by now. I keep wondering how it is that not only can they pin point the date of death, but also one you know, how do you not change the course of history?
Mateo would have otherwise spent the day at home (right?!). Is it a "self fulfilling prophecy" or is the concept that no matter what you do you will die as it is just fate?
I juggled with this concept. I wanted to know more about death cast, but at the same time this concept frustrated me because I did think about how many people could have avoided death if Death-Cast hadn't called. I get that death is bound to happen, but I'd hate to have an alarm for it.
6. Further to the above what stops people from not going crazy on their last day? Robbing banks, killing enemies etc.? Where are the societal parameters?
I think this book looks more towards the idea that most people are relatively good, or looked at people who are and just want to find some kind of peace or figure themselves out on their end day rather than go crazy. I feel like there would be more pending on what part of society/community you looked at.
7. Ok, gotta ask. What would you do with your last day?
I don't know if I could tell my loved ones if I got the call. I wouldn't want them dropping everything to say their goodbyes, I wouldn't want that attention. I think, as unfair as it sounds, I'd tell my boyfriend and we'd play hookie from work and just do things that we both love doing together. I would call and let a couple of other friends know, just cuz I know they're too far away to come see me. And leave a note for my family to put them somewhat at ease, put my affairs in order, etc.
Comments and QuestionsMateo 12:22 a.m - Mateo 4:26 a.m
1. Such an interesting concept for a book. Do you think they really do "die at the end" or are you still holding out some hope?
I’m really not sure, but the way they’ve made it sound it doesn’t seem to have worked out for others who have tried to stop their fate.
2. Have you read any other books by this author? Why did you decide to join this read?
No, this is my first time reading one of Adam Silvera books. I joined in because the concept sounded very interesting. Also, I read a book series earlier this year/end of last year, which had a similar premise, it was a collection of short stories that were very well done. The books were called Machine of Death: A Collection of Stories About People Who Know How They Will Die and This is How You Die: Stories of the Inscrutable, Infallible, Inescapable Machine of Death(and unfortunately they were not able to change their fates either).
3. What are your thoughts on Mateo and Rufus? Can you relate to either or do you have a favourite?
From the first few pages I was all in with Mateo, his character is captivating, the way his thought process takes him through scenario’s and how hard he feels in certain situations. He’s the perfect book nerd. Rufus had to grow on me a bit more but his character is something you need to balance out Mateos character, which you defiantly notice when they finally meet. However, there meeting is showcasing a lot of Mateo's weaknesses that are becoming a bit one-dimensional, but Mateo is so pure like Rufus said it's so endearing and complex, you can’t help but feel for both these characters, their personality traits, and with the people around them watching time slip away.
4. I wasn't expecting Andrea's POV, I thought it would just rotate between Mateo and Rufus. I think it will be really interesting to hear more from her and that complete opposite point of view. Your thoughts?
I’m not really a fan of Andrea, wasn’t a fan of her brief blurb in Mateo’s chapter and I wasn’t fond of her own separate chapter. I understand it’s a job and someone has to do it, but when you have to force yourself to think like this,
'...'Rule number one of one: Deckers are no longer people. That's it. Abide by this one and only rule and you won't find yourself wasting hours with the company's counselors...Andrea reminds herself every night how lucky these Deckers are to have her at their service. She doesn't just tell people they're dying. She gives them a chance to really live.'...'then I’m not sure your bettering yourself or the people around you, money/survival or not. Maybe her character will show some growth, we will have to wait and see.
5. The idea of the apps was not surprising! I was expecting a bit more explanation of Death-Cast by now. I keep wondering how it is that not only can they pin point the date of death, but also one you know, how do you not change the course of history?
Mateo would have otherwise spent the day at home (right?!). Is it a "self fulfilling prophecy" or is the concept that no matter what you do you will die as it is just fate?
I’m not sure we will get much answer on the Death-Cast and how it all works. So far it seems like the author is focusing more on the last hours of these Deckers and their friends and families. I could be wrong and there’s a big reveal in the end. Taking the Presidents case, it could go either way. Yes, he still died by the hand of his secret service in the bunker, but what if he hadn’t told anyone he received a Death-Cast and went to a random bunker himself, would he still have lived? Or would his secret service agents still go out looking for him, find him and still kill him? I think maybe Deckers would have more fight in them to change their fates if maybe they knew what would kill them, giving them a chance to 'try' to avoid said thing as long as they could.
6. Further to the above what stops people from not going crazy on their last day? Robbing banks, killing enemies etc.? Where are the societal parameters?
I feel like (at least the ones with their sanity left) the majority come to grips with the realization that, they don’t have much time left. Would they rather not right wrongs, see family and friends one last time. Instead of robbing banks with money they won’t be able to use or enjoy for long. Which also brings them into a situation where they would be stuck living their End Day in a 6x8 cell alone or the police becoming the reason their day Ends. I think the consequences of that would scare most into trying to make the best of their End Day or at least focus on maybe not bring death sooner than needed.
7. Ok, gotta ask. What would you do with your last day?
To be honest I’d do what most do and spend time with friends and family. Do small things that I know I could accomplish, but would leave a lasting impression on my last day. I would still take some alone time to reflect and do small things for myself and of course spend the last few moments with my animals. You gotta go with the flow and take your End Day for what it is.
'...'No matter how we choose to live we both die at the end.'...'
Mod
I have to say the book grew on me very quickly and I'm not sure why. I think in this first section because I was so interested in this concept of Death Cast and the idea that you can't change your fate. I'm also still in two minds about if I would want to sign up for the "alert" or not
Comments and QuestionsMateo 12:22 a.m - Mateo 4:26 a.m Pages 1-121
1. Such an interesting concept for a book. Do you think they really do "die at the end" or are you still holding out some hope?
I think I went down the pessimistic route where DeathCast kills off the ones in the end who don't die to keep their business alive but most people die from suggestion and risk rather than previously knowing. But not sure how that works for unintended deaths then. So strange.
2. Have you read any other books by this author? Why did you decide to join this read?
Trying to read all of them again.
3. What are your thoughts on Mateo and Rufus? Can you relate to either or do you have a favourite?
I relate more to Mateo since I'm more of a homebody.
4. I wasn't expecting Andrea's POV, I thought it would just rotate between Mateo and Rufus. I think it will be really interesting to hear more from her and that complete opposite point of view. Your thoughts?
I hope we have a bit more of her and she has something useful to add to the story, otherwise it seems a bit random.
5. The idea of the apps was not surprising! I was expecting a bit more explanation of Death-Cast by now. I keep wondering how it is that not only can they pin point the date of death, but also one you know, how do you not change the course of history?
Mateo would have otherwise spent the day at home (right?!). Is it a "self fulfilling prophecy" or is the concept that no matter what you do you will die as it is just fate?
The Necro one was a bit creepy but I suppose all apps would be creepy in this sense. I wish they had a bit more lore in the story about how things worked but maybe that's coming.
6. Further to the above what stops people from not going crazy on their last day? Robbing banks, killing enemies etc.? Where are the societal parameters?
I assume most people don't have a need to rob a bank since they're going to die. I suspect most would just want to stay with their families.
7. Ok, gotta ask. What would you do with your last day?
I'd probably be terrible and try to wrap stuff up but ideally I'd spend it with family.
Discussion Questions Nov 14&15Mateo 4:58 a.m. - Mateo 1:52 p.m. Pages 122 - 250
8) How are you handling the oddities of DeathCast? Are you ok with the plot? I find myself arguing over fate and unstable time lines. I'm hoping it wraps up somewhat.
9) There's a lot of sub plots going on right now. Do you think they'll merge together at the end? Which one is your favorite one?
10) The VR experience was not the quality of experience that the boys were looking for. This feels like it could be relevant in many lives as we switch to a more virtual experience in many areas of our lives. What takeaways are you getting from the book?
11) Rufus is bisexual and it has been mentioned in passing several times. Do you think this is going to be any sort of significant plot point? Or just a way to introduce potential tension into the friendship?
12) Thoughts on how they're going to die and when? (and if?!?)
Discussion Questions Nov 14&15Mateo 4:58 a.m. - Mateo 1:52 p.m. Pages 122 - 250
8) How are you handling the oddities of DeathCast? Are you ok with the plot? It bugged me at first, but it sort of worked itself out in the end, I guess.
9) There's a lot of sub plots going on right now. Do you think they'll merge together at the end? Which one is your favorite one? No comment on plot merging, since I've already finished the book. I think my favorite was the famous actor, kind of had a "doesn't matter how rich you are, you can't escape death" feel to it which I liked because you shouldn't be able to "buy" your way out of fate/death.
10) The VR experience was not the quality of experience that the boys were looking for. This feels like it could be relevant in many lives as we switch to a more virtual experience in many areas of our lives. What takeaways are you getting from the book? My takeaway was that fake is never the real thing, and the less like the actual experience the less VR works.
11) Rufus is bisexual and it has been mentioned in passing several times. Do you think this is going to be any sort of significant plot point? Or just a way to introduce potential tension into the friendship? I like how this worked out in the end, and it went along the lines of how I thought it would probably end, just a little sad.
12) Thoughts on how they're going to die and when? (and if?!?) *Sob* is all I have to say.
Discussion Questions Nov 17&8Rufus 2:12 p.m. - end pg 251 - 368
13. What did you think of the ending? Love it, leave it, hate it?
14. They kind of left us hanging What do you think happened to Rufus?
15. I kind of liked the Romance elements, what did you think of them?
16. How would you handle it if your best friend was told they were going to die today and didn't tell you? Do you think Mateo's and Rufus' friends/families handled it well?
17. What did you think of Rufus' family's death? Should they have tried to get out of the car? What would you do?
18. What did you think of the club? Do you think it matters if someone drinks alcohol under the age of 18/21 (depending on where you live) if you know they'll die the same day? You can't say they'll get hooked. And will it kill anyone, if they're guaranteed to die that day anyway?
13. I liked the ending, I thought for a little while that the book might have some sort of intervention where they both survived, but i'm glad it didn't. it would have felt phoney.14. In my head, I imagine Rufus gets hit by a car, as grim as that is.
15. I liked that Mateo became truly comfortable with who he was as he had struggled expressing himself. It felt bittersweet as the book made me wish that Matteo and Rufus had more time together.
16. I was shocked when Lidia slapped Matteo. I know for definite I would never do that to my best friend no matter what and it jarred with me a little bit, I found it hard to support their friendship from then on. I would obviously be gutted if my friend knew they where dying, but i would respect their decision not to tell me, even though I would have wanted to be with them.
17. I don't think Rufus has a clear memory of that traumatic event, which is understandable. Maybe his family just didn't want his last memory of them to be with them struggling, or they wanted to look peaceful.
18. I think if the club served alcohol it would probably get teenagers pretending they were deckers when they weren't in order to get alcohol.
You would think they would come up with an experience, like the skydiving, where young adults could taste alcohol in a controlled environment, before they die. i'm sure alcohol companies would be all over that if death cast ever became a real thing!
Mod
Mateo 4:58 a.m. - Mateo 1:52 p.m. Pages 122 - 250
8) How are you handling the oddities of DeathCast? Are you ok with the plot? I find myself arguing over fate and unstable time lines. I'm hoping it wraps up somewhat.
Yes I was arguing in my head about that too, but then with an audiobook that's only 8 hours I decided that none of that will be discussed so I tried to not think about it too much and just go with the story :o
9) There's a lot of sub plots going on right now. Do you think they'll merge together at the end? Which one is your favorite one?
I like the subplots, but I wish they were all explored a little more. I think this book could have been double the size (and I don't say that often!!)
10) The VR experience was not the quality of experience that the boys were looking for. This feels like it could be relevant in many lives as we switch to a more virtual experience in many areas of our lives. What takeaways are you getting from the book?
I agree. I think it is one of those things, like you have only a small time left but what do you do with yourself? It's all a bit late by the time you get the alert isn't it?
11) Rufus is bisexual and it has been mentioned in passing several times. Do you think this is going to be any sort of significant plot point? Or just a way to introduce potential tension into the friendship?
Yes, and Mateo said he didn't want to specify, so I assumed a romatic relationship would happen
12) Thoughts on how they're going to die and when? (and if?!?)
No idea. This was the most suspenseful part for me - how will it happen?! :o
Mod
Rufus 2:12 p.m. - end pg 251 - 368
13. What did you think of the ending? Love it, leave it, hate it?
I actually went back a few times on the audio to listen and try and understand it. Mateo I am glad happened at home (that sounds odd) but because if he hadn't gotten the alert he would have been at home. Although he did call the guy who was going to fix the kitchen saying to not come by because he had the alert...so.... huh? Did he create his own fate? I wish I knew what happened to Delilah and if her fiancee got to her or not
14. They kind of left us hanging What do you think happened to Rufus?
That's why I went back and listened a few times. He said something like there was no arm to stop him from stepping off the kerb so I guess he got hit by a car
15. I kind of liked the Romance elements, what did you think of them?
I did too. without them the book would have been a little too depressing
16. How would you handle it if your best friend was told they were going to die today and didn't tell you? Do you think Mateo's and Rufus' friends/families handled it well?
I understood, but didn't agree with Mateo wanting to do that. I don't know how anyone handles that. I guess if it was part of our lives that people got the alert we would just learn to cope
17. What did you think of Rufus' family's death? Should they have tried to get out of the car? What would you do?
This was the part that kept bothering me about deathcast. Does it make you just give up / be more reckless / self-fulfilling prophecy?
18. What did you think of the club? Do you think it matters if someone drinks alcohol under the age of 18/21 (depending on where you live) if you know they'll die the same day? You can't say they'll get hooked. And will it kill anyone, if they're guaranteed to die that day anyway?
Yeah I think if you have the alert then who cares if you drink!
8) How are you handling the oddities of DeathCast? Are you ok with the plot? I find myself arguing over fate and unstable time lines. I'm hoping it wraps up somewhat.It did really bug me, even more so when Death Cast was mentioned but I tried not to let it deter me from the main story.
9) There's a lot of sub plots going on right now. Do you think they'll merge together at the end? Which one is your favorite one?
They better, otherwise I see no point in them
10) The VR experience was not the quality of experience that the boys were looking for. This feels like it could be relevant in many lives as we switch to a more virtual experience in many areas of our lives. What takeaways are you getting from the book?
It was an interesting concept especially since we are getting into that technology, which make me feel that no matter how hard we try, we wont be able to match the real deal.
11) Rufus is bisexual and it has been mentioned in passing several times. Do you think this is going to be any sort of significant plot point? Or just a way to introduce potential tension into the friendship?
Since it was mentioned so many times I was hoping for a significant plot point other wise I feel like the author is mentioning it just to mention it. Even if it was for tension it would have been interesting to how it played out.
12) Thoughts on how they're going to die and when? (and if?!?)
Couldn't help think that Mateo was going to die some tragic way first. Since he was always looking out for Rufus I feel like it's going to come back and bite him....
Rufus 2:12 p.m. - end pg 251 - 36813. What did you think of the ending? Love it, leave it, hate it?
I thought it was a little disappointing in all honesty. I expected to cry my eyes out. I did cry but not as much as I had expected to. It just kind of left me with a "well fuck" feeling that wasn't as impacting as I was hoping
14. They kind of left us hanging What do you think happened to Rufus?
Got hit by the speeding car of the boyfriend who's girlfriend thought he played a joke on her by having death cast call her. Because Mateo wasn't there to stop Rufus so they could look both ways.
15. I kind of liked the Romance elements, what did you think of them?
I did really enjoy this. Despite the book taking place under a twenty four hour period, it didn't feel rushed at all. And I kept rooting for them the whole way and was sooooo excited when it finally happened.
16. How would you handle it if your best friend was told they were going to die today and didn't tell you? Do you think Mateo's and Rufus' friends/families handled it well?
All things considering I feel like there is no "right" or "wrong" way to handle that type of situation. Aside from Amy....wtf...I get that she was mad the Rufus beat up her boyfriend but I'd be questioning his motives after Rufus got the call.
17. What did you think of Rufus' family's death? Should they have tried to get out of the car? What would you do?
I feel like they should have, drowning doesn't seem pleasant. I would hate to see my family just give up because they figure that was the way they were supposed to die.
18. What did you think of the club? Do you think it matters if someone drinks alcohol under the age of 18/21 (depending on where you live) if you know they'll die the same day? You can't say they'll get hooked. And will it kill anyone, if they're guaranteed to die that day anyway?
I get it, 16, 18 , 19, 21 I get that this is widely debated on age, I don't think it matters if you were going to die that day or not. If I was a parent I would rather have my child drink in the safety of my home rather than out at a club that wants to show them a good time on their last day. Because what if alcohol poisoning, or drowning on their own vomit is how they end up dying? how responsible is that?
I finished the book last night so that will color my answers--and spoilers. Now that I've seen how this works, I'll work harder to get on here as I'm reading.1. Such an interesting concept for a book. Do you think they really do "die at the end" or are you still holding out some hope?
I admit it: I held out hope right until the moment it was taken away. (I even looked to see if there was another page.) But I'm not sure that's what I really wanted, or if it would have made it all feel cheap. After all, doesn't Everyone Die in the End ?
2. Have you read any other books by this author? Why did you decide to join this read?
This was my first book by Silvera, and I really chose it to "join" the group. But it was (is) an intriguing concept, and I'm glad I picked it up.
3. What are your thoughts on Mateo and Rufus? Can you relate to either or do you have a favorite?
I feel I have a better sense of Mateo, so I guess I can relate better to him. I enjoy trying new things, I love traveling, but I can get into funks. I'm having trouble creating a "Rufus checklist" for comparison.
4. I wasn't expecting Andrea's POV, I thought it would just rotate between Mateo and Rufus. I think it will be really interesting to hear more from her and that complete opposite point of view. Your thoughts?
I didn't love her in the bits we get to see. But I don't think I'd go so far as saying she had "that complete opposite point of view." The different voices were an important part of what I liked about the book.
5. The idea of the apps was not surprising! I was expecting a bit more explanation of Death-Cast by now. I keep wondering how it is that not only can they pin point the date of death, but also one you know, how do you not change the course of history?
Mateo would have otherwise spent the day at home (right?!). Is it a "self fulfilling prophecy" or is the concept that no matter what you do you will die as it is just fate?
I would love to know more about Death-Cast--but we can't. Any more than we can know more about the way it works now. I don't want to cave to flat-out fate--why get off the couch?--but I don't have enough time for that full Fate discussion here, and it's too early in the morning for that, and I'd want adult beverages, and I don't want to type that much, and ...
6. Further to the above what stops people from not going crazy on their last day? Robbing banks, killing enemies etc.? Where are the societal parameters?
The societal parameters are the same we have now. Police, security, and do you want your Last Act to be murder? (Not to mention, I'm still a bit fuzzy about the ability to die if you don't get the call.) What really stops people from "going crazy" on any day?
7. Ok, gotta ask. What would you do with your last day?
I was dreading this question. I can see myself starting like Mateo, thinking about all the things I need to try to do but not actually getting to it. Maybe I'd make my sister's favorite chicken one last time, or bake enough cookies to host my own funeral. But in the end I'd probably go hiking alone, not wanting to bother others with the news of the end. Truth is, I would want to know when I have a few months, or even weeks, but by the time it's down to less than 24-hours, leave me out of it.
8) How are you handling the oddities of DeathCast? Are you ok with the plot? I find myself arguing over fate and unstable time lines. I'm hoping it wraps up somewhat.Once I'm reading a book (or watching a movie), I go with it. If I can't, I move on because there's no point.
9) There's a lot of sub plots going on right now. Do you think they'll merge together at the end? Which one is your favorite one?
It turns out to be a lot like life. You meet someone, you share their story for a few minutes (or hours), and then you go back to your own life; sometimes you learn more or see them again, sometimes you never know how things turned out. That said, I would have like to know more about Delilah. I got a bit bogged down a couple times about who was who, but introducing each new character with the line about the call helped me to know who I'd met before.
10) The VR experience was not the quality of experience that the boys were looking for. This feels like it could be relevant in many lives as we switch to a more virtual experience in many areas of our lives. What takeaways are you getting from the book?
About VR? It doesn't seem worth it in the world described here. But when we get to a Star Trek holodeck, I'm in.
11) Rufus is bisexual and it has been mentioned in passing several times. Do you think this is going to be any sort of significant plot point? Or just a way to introduce potential tension into the friendship?
I got the hints.
12) Thoughts on how they're going to die and when? (and if?!?)
I didn't find it worth my brain cells to keep guessing.
13. What did you think of the ending? Love it, leave it, hate it? It worked. I actually found it pretty sudden, considering that the title of the book is the ultimate spoiler.
14. They kind of left us hanging What do you think happened to Rufus?
I thought that too as I read, even looked for the next page, but that was just Stage 1: Denial. I looked back and it was all there.
15. I kind of liked the Romance elements, what did you think of them?
They were cute. I'm glad they didn't have sex, which I would have put in the Question 6 category. Too soon, too much (for Mateo)
16. How would you handle it if your best friend was told they were going to die today and didn't tell you? Do you think Mateo's and Rufus' friends/families handled it well?
It's hard to say for sure, because you never know for sure what your friends are telling you. I'd like to think I'd understand their reasons. In the situation set by the book, there's nothing they can do. And with so little time, I wouldn't want to hold them back, or have them thinking about me.
17. What did you think of Rufus' family's death? Should they have tried to get out of the car? What would you do?
The book seems very clear on the rules. So, Why?
18. What did you think of the club? Do you think it matters if someone drinks alcohol under the age of 18/21 (depending on where you live) if you know they'll die the same day? You can't say they'll get hooked. And will it kill anyone, if they're guaranteed to die that day anyway?
The biggest reason to maintain the rule is to maintain the order and the fun for everyone. I'm actually unclear why they bother to check ID in the first place. Why shouldn't a 16-year-old get a few minutes of "grown-up time"? I assume drinkers can choose a different club. (Look for me somewhere that sells very expensive Champagne, or Bourbon.)
Look at it practically. You'd be sure to get first-time drinkers, belligerent drunks, those who want to "choose" to drink until they drop (literally and forever). It would be a mess. And who wants to die during an argument about who puked on your shoes?
Discussion Questions Nov 14&15Mateo 4:58 a.m. - Mateo 1:52 p.m. Pages 122 – 250
8) How are you handling the oddities of DeathCast? Are you ok with the plot? I find myself arguing over fate and unstable time lines. I'm hoping it wraps up somewhat.
I’m ok with it, I think from reading all the Death Machine short stories somewhat prepared me for this story, I’m just enjoying the journey as I read.
9) There's a lot of sub plots going on right now. Do you think they'll merge together at the end? Which one is your favorite one?
I finished the book, but I did figure some plots would merge together. I like that the author didn't have to merge every story but at some point, everyone somewhat crossed each other's path. I love that idea, of the people you pass by or come across on a day to day basis, what turmoils are they going through? How might their day effect yours and the others around you? I was hoping that the Pluto's, Mateo, and Lidia all met up at some point.
10) The VR experience was not the quality of experience that the boys were looking for. This feels like it could be relevant in many lives as we switch to a more virtual experience in many areas of our lives. What takeaways are you getting from the book?
There are a lot of takeaways, it makes you really question your mortality? It’s a good life check, to take advantage of every moment, make little moments within those moments because you never know that little leap of faith could turn that little moment into a moment you’ll never forget. Every little interaction means something to someone no matter how small the gesture.
11) Rufus is bisexual and it has been mentioned in passing several times. Do you think this is going to be any sort of significant plot point? Or just a way to introduce potential tension into the friendship?
At first I wasn’t sure but when I read his bio on the app it did stand out to me, as the story progressed I was kind of hoping it would lead somewhere :D
12) Thoughts on how they're going to die and when? (and if?!?)
I’ve finished it, but while I was reading I always went back to the title and figured stories like these don’t seem to stray but you never know, after a few chapters in I came to the acceptance that they would die in the end.
Discussion Questions Nov 17&8Rufus 2:12 p.m. - end pg 251 – 368
13. What did you think of the ending? Love it, leave it, hate it?
For me it was bittersweet and hard because to me (wishful thinking, but I feel like Rufus his death may have been evaded if maybe Delilah Grey had called Victor Gallaher, he wouldn’t be racing to Althea Park where Rufus was heading) I loved these characters and how pure and raw they were, I wished they didn’t have to die but I’m glad they had each other in the end.
14. They kind of left us hanging What do you think happened to Rufus?
Like my previous answer, I assume Victor rushing to Delilah was Rufus' End Day.
15. I kind of liked the Romance elements, what did you think of them?
At first I didn’t know how it would play into the story because I wasn’t sure where Mateo really stood on relationships and sex, but I should have put two and two together. I was happy they were able to find each other, it was just sad to read what it could have been.
16. How would you handle it if your best friend was told they were going to die today and didn't tell you? Do you think Mateo's and Rufus' friends/families handled it well?
You can never really say how you would handle something until it really stares you in the face, but I'd make the best of every minute I had left. Also, the situations your thrown in while this is happening also charges a lot, but they all handled it in their own way and in the end came out better for it.
17. What did you think of Rufus' family's death? Should they have tried to get out of the car? What would you do?
I think they just gave in to the Death Cast odds and tried to make sure Rufus had a clear way out without any struggle. Me, regardless what anyone tells me about my death I would still try and make my own odds, or die a little less painfully (the door was open for his sister to just swim out if she had tried what would have taken her out? Maybe she wouldn’t have been a strong enough swimmer to make it to the top either way or maybe she thought it might hinder or change Rufus' fate?).
18. What did you think of the club? Do you think it matters if someone drinks alcohol under the age of 18/21 (depending on where you live) if you know they'll die the same day? You can't say they'll get hooked. And will it kill anyone, if they're guaranteed to die that day anyway?
I think the choice to not sell drinks to them is wise, some don’t make wise choices while under the influence and that person could end up being the reason another person’s End Day is up because of a drunken accident or the emotion that emerges is anger and wallowing. Especially if that person doesn’t know their tolerance or the type of person they are (things they might do) under the influence. Maybe a one drink limit, enjoy your end day and at least remember some of it. To each there own.
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Machine of Death: A Collection of Stories About People Who Know How They Will Die (other topics)This is How You Die: Stories of the Inscrutable, Infallible, Inescapable Machine of Death (other topics)
Anansi Boys (other topics)
This topic is open to discuss They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera. Be prepared for spoilers!
Synopsis
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 and to live a lifetime in a single day.