Short Dystopian story in a Childrens collection where average lifespan is seven days and the characters must race to a ship (?). Read 2012-2018. Spoiler.

[Iona]

I am almost certain that this story is based on a longer one for adults. T he main character is a young man. I remember there being some scenes that scared me - h is father dying, and perhaps a sort of prophet delivering speeches.

Mild spoiler warning

To end this abbreviated life span he races with some others to a sort of marooned ship. Potentially a space ship? This buys them more time.

Read around 2012-2018. I think the cover was blue.

[Bargle]

I think that's "Frost and Fire" by Ray Bradbury.

Frost and Fire: A short story by Ray Bradbury by Ray Bradbury.

[Iona]

Thanks, that’s certainly the story the one I read was based on and I will enjoy reading it probably more than the abridged children one.