Title: TH1RTEEN R3ASONS WHY Author: Jay Asher
Publisher: Razorbill
Copyright Date: 2007
Print Date: October 2007
ISBN: 9781595141712
Pages: 288
Book Description (from dust jacket):
Comments:CLAY JENSEN'S FIRST LOVErecords her last words.
Clay Jenkins returns home from school to find a mysterious box with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers several 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 why.
Clay spends his night crisscrossing his town with Hannah as his guide. He becomes a first-hand witness to Hannah's pain, and learns the truth about himself — a truth he never wanted to face.
This book had my thoughts shooting all over the place...including quite a bit of introspection as well as some reflection on those around me affected by suicide (and of course, those with some connection to me who have committed suicide). The book speaks quite a bit on loneliness, desperation to be heard and accepted, how seemingly little things and words can have a big impact...
I certainly liked Clay. And as for Hannah... well, thats difficult to say. I can say the book was deep and drew me in. I was both as anxious and wary to read Hannah's words as Clay was to hear it.
As a side note: I also visited the website identified on the back cover of the book (www.thirteenreasonswhy.com)In addition to reader's reviews and other typical details found on such websites (synopsis, awards, author info, etc.) about the book, there are some videos of tapes like Hannah sent out. (According to commentators on YouTube the voice is done by Olivia Thirlby — of the movie Juno.) Also Hannah's map and a blog with posts about each tape. And "comments" and a responding "tape" by "Mr. Porter" (which I won't say more about lest I give too much away). Personally, I found it all creepy (not in a good way); however, it seems plenty of others really loved all these extras, so....
Great review. I see your comments here about the extras and finding them a bit creepy, I get that.
ReplyDeleteHow did you feel about the book? You mention Clay being likable (I agree) and Hannah I also agree can be questionable. Overall did you enjoy the read?
I found it to be a unique book and I liked it very much.
I agree it's a unique book. It certainly offers a unique perspective.
ReplyDeleteI can't say I "enjoyed" the book when I was so busy dissecting everything.
But I don't regret reading it, and I didn't dislike it.