They Both Die at the End

4/13/20241 min read

3/5 ★

So obviously the title spoils the ending but I think that is what makes this book so unique. I didn't like, however, the style of writing only because it seemed repetitive and the dialogue didn't give as much characterization as it should have. On another note, throughout the book or even in the beginning we didn't get much description of the characters; we mostly had to infer what they looked like and how they acted. Something I noticed was the pace of the book didn't feel right. Each short chapter would start with a time stamp to bring us along the incredulous 24-hour journey, but to me the plot points seemed impossible to take place in such short timings. It almost felt unrealistic even given the time stamps for evidence. But I really loved the way Adam Silvera used several point of views without any context, making me use my brain. The whole book is connected through its characters, one way or another, showing the overall message of how everybody is connecting without even knowing it. Silvera underlined his belief that one person's actions can affect a whole bunch of people without them knowing it. So although I was impressed by the plot and creativity of the whole idea, the execution could use a lot more work.

Recommendation

I personally didn't cry for this book, and I usually cry after finishing books even if they aren't sad but just were extra good. So I would recommend this to you even if you are sensitive because I think you would get a kick out of the humor but realistic emotions portrayed through the book. Additionally for anyone who likes realistic fiction, this is for you. I know the book is a foreign concept and could be categorized as dystopian, but since it only takes place in 2017 I don't count that as dystopian.

They Both Die at the End