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.

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.

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

- The First to Die at the End is a prequel to Adam Silvera's highly successful 2017 novel, They Both Die at the End.
- The book explores the origin of the Death-Cast system, which plays a pivotal role in Adam Silvera's universe by predicting the last living day of individuals.
- Silvera's works, including The First to Die at the End, often explore themes of love, mortality, and the impact of life-changing technology, appealing to young adult readers.

**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.

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

**Dalma Young**  
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.

**Joaquin Rosa**  
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.

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

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

Adam Silvera

Novel

Death-Cast

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The First to Die at the End reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The First to Die at the End | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The First to Die at the End and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The First to Die at the End Summary and Study Guide

Background

The First to Die at the End Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Death-Cast Eve”

Part 1, Chapters 1-9

The First to Die at the End Part 1, Chapters 1-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Death Cast”

Part 2, Chapters 10-31

The First to Die at the End Part 2, Chapters 10-31 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Firsts”

Part 3, Chapters 32-62

The First to Die at the End Part 3, Chapters 32-62 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 63-91

The First to Die at the End Part 3, Chapters 63-91 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The End”

Part 4, Chapters 92-105

The First to Die at the End Part 4, Chapters 92-105 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “The Beginning”

Part 5, Chapters 107-115

The First to Die at the End Part 5, Chapters 107-115 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The First to Die at the End Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The First to Die at the End Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The First to Die at the End Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The First to Die at the End Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The First to Die at the End Essay Topics

The First to Die at the End

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The First to Die at the End?

Reading Age

Book Details