What do you think about Ben’s decision to keep his diagnosis from family and friends? Would you want a friend or a family member to tell you if he or she was given Ben’s diagnosis? What do you think you would have done if you were in Ben’s position?
What do you think people fear about death? Why is death difficult to talk about? Should it be?
What does this story have to say about secrets? About the truth?
Why does Ben decide to continue helping Rudy McCoy even after he learns about Rudy’s past? Do you agree with Ben about Rudy?
Sylvia Longley expresses her opinion that burning books should be okay since it’s okay to burn the American flag. What do you think about burning, or banning, books? What do you think about burning the American flag?
Running helps Ben calm down when he’s overwhelmed. What helps you?
Ben has “Too Old to Die Young,” sung by Ann Savoy and Linda Ronstadt, on his playlist for loss. What other music might Ben have on this iPod playlist?
If you had to write a list of things you wanted to do or learn before you die, what would be on your list?
Cited Resources: Harper Collins Content Guide for Deadline by Chris Crutcher; LitTunes “Fragility of Life” Lesson Plan by Dr. Christian Z. Goering
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