1. The story is set against the backdrop of post-Islamic Revolution Iran, under Sharia law. How does this context shape Ahrash’s circumstances and his sense of innocence or guilt?
2. How did you feel when you first encountered Ahrash’s situation—a talented 13-year‑old thrust into the harsh grip of Sharia law? Did your sympathies shift as the story unfolded?
3. How does Ahrash evolve throughout the story? How does this forced maturity affect your connection to him?
4. Despite being under the shadow of death, are there moments in the novel that convey hope, resilience, or human connection? What stood out to you as particularly moving or hopeful?
5. Several people brought hope to Ahrash amid his despair. Which characters do you think offered him the greatest sense of hope, and why?
6. Discuss the roles of secondary characters like Ahrash’s brother Issa, the twins and judge Kasra. How did they influence the narrative?
7. Warden Ramzi faces a deep conflict between his compassionate nature and the harsh duties of his profession. How does this inner struggle affect his family life and his health, and what might you have done differently if you were in his position?
8. Sakineh is portrayed as vengeful, cruel and heartless, yet she remains forever bereaved over the loss of her murdered son. How do you understand her character, and do you feel any sympathy for her despite her flaws?” “How does Sakineh’s grief shape the way we view her cruelty? Can profound loss make even harsh or unsympathetic characters more human in your eyes?
9. Describe the relationship between Ali and Mahmood? How Mahmood’s strong personality did shadow Ali’s life even after his death.
10. Sakineh and Sharif had completely opposite personalities—Sharif was kind, generous, and strong, while Sakineh was harsh and self-centered. How do you think their marriage lasted so long? Was it because of Sharif’s sacrifices, the bond of raising four children together, or something else?
11. In Death Row Boy, we see pure love between Neloo and Ahrash. What other forms of significant love—whether romantic, familial, or sacrificial—did you notice among the characters?
12. Hajji was a wealthy and generous man, respected for his fairness among the villagers. What role did he play in saving Ahrash, and was he truly the sole protector of Ahrash’s family during their time of hardship?
13. Compare and contrast the dispositions of the two mothers—Aziz, mother of Issa and Ahrash, and Sakineh, mother of Mahmood, Neloo, and the twins. How would you describe each woman’s relationship with her children?
14. Khalil, a deeply religious man, lost his faith on two occasions, questioning God’s fairness. Can you recall these moments, and did he repent both times? Why or why not?
15. Under Shari’a law in Iran, boys as young as 13 and girls as young as 9 can be held legally responsible as adults, even if they may not fully grasp the consequences of their actions. How does this compare with the treatment of underage children in the United States, and in what ways might such cultural differences place Iranian children at risk?
16. How would you describe Neloo’s feelings toward her mother? Why do you think she always referred to her by her first name, Sakineh? Were there any moments when Neloo felt a real connection to her mother or any sense of sympathy for her? In what ways did Neloo’s strained relationship with her mother influence the kind of person she became and the choices she made in her own life?
17. Reza, the Iranian Olympic gold medalist, appeared in Ahrash’s life only briefly, yet he had a profound influence on him. How did Reza help Ahrash, and why do you think he was willing to step in on his behalf?
18. To save Ahrash from certain death, Neloo made the ultimate sacrifice—she agreed to marry a man she did not love. If you were in her position, would you have done the same? Why or why not?
19. Ahrash had deep affection toward his family, especially to his brother Issa. Ahrash and Issa share a deep give-and-take relationship built on love, guidance, and mutual support. In what ways does their bond shape the choices they make and the strength they draw from each other? Have you ever experienced a similar give-and-take relationship with a sibling, friend, or family member? How does that shape how you view Ahrash and Issa’s bond?
20. What is your overall impression of Death Row Boy? Since the novel was inspired by a true story, do you feel the author should have taken creative liberty to alter the ending, or was it more powerful to remain true to the tragic reality?