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Quick answer: They Both Die at the End is best for readers aged 14 and up. It is an emotional story about two boys on their last day alive, with strong language, some violence and the theme of death throughout.
Quick facts
– Book: They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera (2017)
– Format: Young adult novel
– Suggested starting age: 14 and up
– Best for: families checking whether the book fits their child's age and maturity
Parents search for the right age for They Both Die at the End because age labels on a cover rarely tell the whole story. A child's age is only one clue. Reading level, maturity, sensitivity to certain topics and whether a parent will read along all matter. This guide gives a clear age range, a content breakdown and a few ways to decide for your own child. Use the table and checklist below as a starting point, then adjust for what you know about your child's temperament, reading experience and sensitivity.
Table of Contents
Age-by-Age Guide to They Both Die at the End
| Age | What to expect |
|---|---|
| 12 to 13 | Possible for mature readers, though the focus on death is heavy. |
| 14 to 15 | A good fit. |
| 16 to 17 | Ideal. |
| Adults | Many adults enjoy it too. |
What Is They Both Die at the End About?
In a world where a service called Death-Cast calls people on the day they will die, Mateo and Rufus both get the call. They are strangers, but they meet through an app called Last Friend. Together, they spend their final day in New York City, facing fears, saying goodbye and falling in love.
Start with They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera if your child is in the suggested range.
Check price of They Both Die at the End on Amazon
Content Guide for Parents
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| Violence | Some violence, including a fight and deaths. |
| Language | Frequent swearing. |
| Romance and sex | Kissing between the two boys, not explicit. |
| Scary content | Emotional rather than scary. |
| Drugs and alcohol | Some drinking. |
| Positive messages | Living fully, friendship, love and courage. |
Is They Both Die at the End Okay for a Younger Child?
Children under 14 may find the constant focus on death upsetting. The language is strong. Mature twelve- and thirteen-year-olds may handle it with discussion.
What Parents Should Know Before Their Child Reads They Both Die at the End
The book became a TikTok sensation years after publication. It has a prequel, The First to Die at the End. Readers know the ending from the title, but the book still deeply affects many.
Why Age Recommendations Differ
Publishers, schools, libraries and review sites often give different age ranges for the same book. Publishers aim at the buying market, schools think about reading level and classroom discussion, and parents care most about content and maturity. If you are unsure about They Both Die at the End, read a few pages, check a trusted review and trust what you know about your own child.
Reading Level, Length and Format
Before you buy, check the page count and the edition. Longer books with small print can feel harder than the age label suggests, and illustrated or abridged editions can bring a book within reach of a younger reader. Audiobooks and library copies are a low-cost way to try They Both Die at the End first. If your child reads below the suggested level, reading aloud together is a good way to share the story without frustration.
Tips for Different Kinds of Readers
- Advanced young readers: A strong reader may be able to decode the words of They Both Die at the End well before they are ready for its themes, so judge by maturity, not only by reading level.
- Reluctant readers: Offer the audiobook, take turns reading chapters, or watch for a good moment to stop and talk.
- Sensitive readers: Skim the content guide above and preview any chapters that may upset them.
- Older readers: Teens who read below the age range for fun can still enjoy the book, and a familiar story can be a comfortable break.
Is Your Child Ready? A Quick Checklist
- Can they read at a level close to the book's, or will they listen as you read aloud?
- Do they cope well with the themes listed in the content guide above?
- Do they like talking about stories, and will they come to you with questions?
- Have they read other books at a similar level and enjoyed them?
- Do they want to read this book, rather than feel pushed to?
- Are you able to check in after the first few chapters?
If you answered yes to most of these, your child is probably ready. If you answered no to several, it is fine to wait a year or choose a gentler book first.
A Simple Read-Together Plan
- Preview. Read the first chapter or a sample yourself so you know the tone.
- Read the first chapters together. Notice how your child reacts, and pause when something feels heavy.
- Check in. Ask what they think is happening and how they feel about the characters.
- Decide on independence. If it goes well, let them continue alone, and keep the conversation open.
If Your Child Wants to Read It Early
Curious children often ask for books before the suggested age. Rather than say no outright, offer a compromise: read the first chapters together, listen to the audiobook as a family or set a check-in after each section. That keeps They Both Die at the End from becoming forbidden fruit while still letting you guide the experience.
Questions to Talk About After Reading They Both Die at the End
- Which character did you understand best, and why?
- Was there a moment that surprised or worried you?
- What would you have done in the main character's place?
- What did the book teach you, if anything?
- Would you recommend it to a friend, and who would enjoy it most?
Similar Books to Try
- The First to Die at the End by Adam Silvera: the prequel
- The Fault in Our Stars by John Green: a teen love story facing death
- Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz: two boys find love
Related: They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera: Summary and Key Takeaways
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is They Both Die at the End appropriate for?
They Both Die at the End is best for readers aged 14 and up. It is an emotional story about two boys on their last day alive, with strong language, some violence and the theme of death throughout.
Is They Both Die at the End okay for a younger child?
Children under 14 may find the constant focus on death upsetting. The language is strong. Mature twelve- and thirteen-year-olds may handle it with discussion.
Do they really both die?
Yes.
Is it sad?
Very, but also hopeful.
Should I read They Both Die at the End before my child does?
It is a good idea to read the opening chapters or a summary first. That way you know the tone and can answer questions as they come up.
Can my child listen to They Both Die at the End instead of reading it?
Yes. An audiobook is a good option for readers who are a little below the suggested age, because you can listen together and pause to talk.