Deadline

Crutcher, C. (2007). Deadline. NY: HarperCollins Publishers.

Summary

Right before his senior year of high school, Ben gets unexpected news after going for a school physical. He has a rare blood disease and the treatment options don't look good. He decides to forgo treatment and keep his condition a secret from everyone, including his family. He sets out to spend his last year living life to the fullest and doing everything that he was always too afraid to do before. He goes out for the varsity football team and pursues the girl that he has been in love with for awhile. He also challenges his teachers and even tries to get a road named after Malcolm X in their all white community. Through the guidance of Hey-Soos, a figure that visits him in his dreams, he realizes that he is hurting everyone he loves by keeping his condition a secret.

Commentary

This book really deals with some serious issues such as rape, child molestation, suicide, and death. Unfortunately, these are many topics that young adults are facing as well and can find relatable in this book. Many young adults can also relate to Ben wanting to challenge what he has always been taught and search for the truth himself. In the book, Ben is really searching for the meaning and purpose of life. It really challenges the reader to question their own views and ideas on the purpose of life and how we effect those around us.

Educator's Reading Guide
http://www.chriscrutcher.com/for-educators.html

Interview With the Author