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Cover of After the First Death

After the First Death

Robert Cormier (1979)

SubgenreHigh Fantasy
Age groupYA 12-17
Content ratingR
Pages (Quick Read (<250))
Setting
CSM age16
Goodreads3.66

Content levels

ViolenceStrong
Sexual contentNone
LanguageModerate

Protagonist archetypes

Multiple POVsTortured Protagonist

Synopsis

Events of the hijacking of a bus of children by terrorists seeking the return of their homeland are described from the perspectives of a hostage, a terrorist, an Army general involved in the rescue operation, and his son, chosen as the go-between.

Is After the First Death appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 16 and up.

This intense psychological thriller deals with terrorism, child hostages, and explores dark themes of manipulation and violence. Contains strong violence, psychological trauma, suicide, and morally complex characters that may disturb younger readers.

What to know going in

This book has strong violence, no sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include child harm, suicide, kidnapping, and death (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Teens interested in psychological thrillers and stories that challenge moral certainty will find this gripping multi-perspective narrative thought-provoking.

Tags

Psychological ThrillerPolitical FictionLiterary FictionContemporary Realism