Book Review: Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Synopsis

“Clay Jensen returns home from school to find a mysterious box with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers thirteen cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker, his classmate and crush who committed suicide two weeks earlier. On tape, Hannah explains that there are thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life. Clay is one of them. If he listens, he’ll find out how he made the list. Through Hannah and Clay’s dual narratives, debut author Jay Asher weaves an intricate and heartrending story of confusion and desperation that will deeply affect teen readers.”

Jen’s Review

I read this book two years ago, but I feel like I read it yesterday. That’s because Thirteen Reasons Why is a story that stays with you. It isn’t a happy tale–obviously–but it resonates with you, living deep inside you long after you’ve finished it.

As I read Thirteen Reasons Why, I found myself holding my breath, gripping the book, chewing my bottom lip, and fidgeting uncomfortably. I never stopped feeling. I went from sad to anxious to angry, back to sad, to confused, to frustrated…Although you already know Hannah Baker’s fateful ending from the start, you’re constantly wondering how things are going to end for the other narrator, Clay Jensen. What was his role in Hannah’s decision to end her life? What did he do to her–or not do? And how will hearing her tragic story change him? How will it change everyone who played a role in her death?

How will it change you, the reader? Many of us have never dealt with the serious topic of suicide this intimately before. But, I assure you, with every page, you’ll sense yourself evolving, your understanding on the matter deepening. You’ll feel yourself changing.

I want to shove this book into every hand of every person I know. Because Thirteen Reasons Why is more than a touching, shattering tale. It’s a lesson in life. So, here I am, shoving it into YOUR hand. Please, go pick it up and read it. You’re sure to be changed for the better. Or, at the very least, your awareness will be heightened and your sense of duty to humanity will be strengthened. I know mine is.

Jen’s Rating

For a full synopsis, click here.

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