a discussion guide
Teen Fiction
About the Book
I had the dream again. The one where I’m
running. I don’t know what from or where to, but I’m
scared, terrified really.
Austin Parker is never going to see his
eighteenth birthday. At the rate he’s going, he
probably won’t even see the end of the year.
But in the short time he has left there’s one
thing he can do: He can try to help the people
he loves live—even though he never will.
It’s probably hopeless.
But he has to try.
ISBN: 978-0-547-55076-3
$7.99 PA
E-book available
978-0-547-55081-7
About the Author
Megan (that’s with a long “e”) Bostic
lives in the Pacific Northwest with her two
crazy beautiful girls.
When not writing, Megan is usually
chauffeuring her teenage daughters,
watching them play soccer, watching
Netflix, spending time at the ocean, or
walking the Narrows Bridge.
Megan loves the color black, monkeys,
and is a notorious Facebook addict. She’s a
proud member of the Class of 2K12 and
the Society of Children’s Book Writers and
Illustrators. You can also find her on
Twitter and Goodreads.
 a discussion guide
Pre-Reading
Discussion Questions
If you knew you only had a short time left, what would you do? Name five
places you’ve always wanted to go, five things you’ve always wanted to
do, five things you’re afraid to do but would consider trying, five people
you would want to visit. Answer why to all answers.
Post-Reading
Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think Austin’s mom 8. When Kaylee asks Austin if he
needs a sanctuary? What would be believes in heaven, why do you
your sanctuary? think he says “I have to”?

2. Music plays an important role in 9. How does Austin reveal his

the story. Cite examples and fear of dying? How do the people
explain. around him express their fear?

3. What do you think are the true
qualities of a friend? Would you put
yourself in Kaylee’s position? Why
or why not?
4. Do you think Austin’s actions are
self-serving or selfless?
5. Would you find it difficult to be
around a friend or classmate with a
terminal illness? How do you think
Austin’s friends handle it?
10. Why do you think Austin
chooses death over chemo? Do you
think that was a selfish choice?
11. The five stages of grief are de-
nial, anger, bargaining, depres-
sion, and acceptance. Which do
you see in Never Eighteen? How
are they manifested and by whom?
12. Did you find the story hopeful?
Why or why not?

6. Explain the meaning of 13. Ask yourself the pre-reading

Austin’spoem, “I Am a Ghost.” question again. Have your
answers changed? Why or why
7. Think about your favorite song. not?
What makes it so important to you?
 a discussion guide
Praise For Never Eighteen
“Poignant, romantic, and uplifting. Every emotion rings true, and the characters — even the
minor ones — are well drawn and memorable. You’ll love riding along with Austin and
Kaylee on a journey to the center of the heart.” — R. A. Nelson, author of Teach Me,
Breathe My Name, Days of Little Texas, and Throat

“Austin Parker has mere months to set right all the problems in the lives of those he loves,
and Megan Bostic has a classic weepie on her hands. She keeps the pages turning, but it’s
your job to keep tissues at hand!” — Brent Hartinger, author of Geography Club, Last Chance
Texaco, Project Sweet Life, and Shadow Walkers

“Just finished Never Eighteen by Megan Bostic. Don’t start this one without plenty of Kleen-
ex. Going to hug my kids now . . .” — Amy Fellner Dominy, author of OyMG

“In the last stages of terminal cancer, Austin lives for the moment by mending fences in his
own life and allowing others to begin the process for themselves in this intense, spare read.”
— Caroline Starr Rose, author of May B

“Loved it! Austin’s a great character who made me laugh and cry. I really enjoyed follow-
ing along while he tries to help the people he cares about in the short time he has left.” —
Lynne Kelly, author of Chained

“I just finished Never Eighteen . . . Bostic tackled a difficult subject with tremendous grace,
her voice is amazing, and I’m looking forward to buying my own copy in January so I can
have another good cry!” — Gina Rosati, author of Auracle

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt • 222 Berkeley Street • Boston, Massachusetts 02116

www.hmhbooks.com

www.meganbosticbooks.com