By the Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead
By Kate Pavao,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Realistic portrayal of a teen committed to killing herself.

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What you will—and won't—find in this book.
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Based on 3 parent reviews
A deep look into a very private world.
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Mature But Beautiful Book
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What's the Story?
When depressed Daelyn stumbles upon a mysterious website called \"Through-the-Light,\" she is given 23 days to decide if she really wants to kill herself. The site asks her questions that help her reflect on her decision (For example, \"Who will help you through the darkness?\"). The site also provides her a community where she can vent t her problems (and read what other suicidal users have to say). But as she is preparing herself to leave this world, she makes a surprising connection with an offbeat boy with a secret of his own. Suddenly, she has to rethink everything.
Is It Any Good?
Daelyn is a realistic character whom readers will empathize with. The author makes her tragic story come to life, even when using devices that could easily fall flat (like chat board discussions). Her relationship with Santana seems a little too well timed. But, ultimately, this book will certainly give readers a lot to contemplate, especially its open-ended conclusion.
This author is known for teen books that push the envelope on edgy subject matter. Of course, sadly, it could certainly resonate with some teens for the wrong reasons.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the website Daelyn visits. It tells users "self-termination is your right." Do you agree or disagree with this attitude? Should websites that support dangerous behaviors -- like suicide, anorexia, or cutting -- be allowed to operate?
Dealyn is a target of cyberbullying, something that happens to 43 percent of kids. Ask your teens if they've ever gotten -- or sent -- a hurtful message online. What happened? You may want to review Common Sense Media's article about protecting kids from cyberbullying.
Book Details
- Author: Julie Anne Peters
- Genre: Coming of Age
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children
- Publication date: January 5, 2010
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 14 - 17
- Number of pages: 224
- Last updated: July 12, 2017
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