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The First to Die at the End

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2022

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Book Brief

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Adam Silvera

The First to Die at the End

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2022
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Theme
Topic
Publication Year

2022

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The First to Die at the End by Adam Silvera begins on July 30, 2010, with Orion Pagan and his adoptive sister Dalma Young attending the launch of Death-Cast, a service predicting imminent death. They meet Valentino Prince, who also enrolls. Valentino learns he will die that day, and despite threats to his own safety, Orion helps ensure Valentino’s final hours are meaningful, deepening their bond. Themes of death, violence, and loss are explored.

Emotional

Bittersweet

Romantic

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

96,977 ratings

73%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Adam Silvera's The First to Die at the End showcases poignant storytelling, resonating deeply with readers through its exploration of love and mortality. The narrative’s emotional depth and character development are praised, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, the prequel enriches the universe of They Both Die at the End, appealing to existing fans and newcomers alike.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The First to Die at the End?

Readers who appreciated the emotional depth and speculative elements of They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera will find The First to Die at the End equally compelling. Ideal for fans of poignant, character-driven narratives like The Fault in Our Stars by John Green, this novel appeals to those who enjoy exploring themes of love, destiny, and mortality.

4.3

96,977 ratings

73%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Orion Pagan

A tall young man with hazel eyes and sharp cheekbones who wears his father’s Yankees hat and lives with cardiomyopathy, forming a central connection with Valentino as the narrative unfolds.

A tall, muscular aspiring model who moves to New York City, embarks on a significant friendship with Orion, and navigates his past familial challenges.

Orion’s best friend and adoptive sister who supports him through his health challenges and is deeply involved in the emotional dynamics surrounding Orion’s decisions.

The founder of Death-Cast who is dedicated to ensuring the company's success as he manages the operations and faces initial hurdles with the service.

Lives with her son in Valentino’s building, seeks control over her life circumstances, and makes pivotal decisions regarding her family dynamics.

Valentino’s landlord and an abusive husband to Gloria, focused on exploiting media attention around Death-Cast Deckers.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Theme
Topic
Publication Year

2022

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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