Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Audiobook ISBN: 978-0-7393-5650-0
Listening Library, 2007
Read by Joel Johnstone & Debra Wiseman

Book ISBN: 978-1-59514-171-2
Razorbill, NY 2007
288 pages

Plot Summary

High school student Clay Jensen receives a package of 13 tapes that were sent by Hannah Baker, a friend who committed suicide. Each of the tapes spotlight a person Hannah feels responsible for her final decision. Clay never knew about most of the devastating events that occurred and can't figure out why he was chosen to receive the tapes as he considered himself a good guy and a friend. He is drawn into her story and follows the instructions on the tapes but wishes he had realized before it was too late that Hannah had been calling out for help.

Critical Evaluation

This is a devastatingly anti-suicide book. I would usually recommend reading a book rather than listening to its audio version, but the way this book is written, listening to the 13 tapes brings out all the raw emotion of the troubled girl. Listening to Hannah's voice is a jolt to Clay but should be for any listener as her pain comes through loud and clear.

Reader's Annotation

Clay Jensen doesn't understand why he's one of the 13 reasons why Hannah Baker committed suicide. He really liked her and wishes he had known the warning signs before it was too late.

Author Info

Jay Asher got the idea for Thirteen Reasons Why while he was at a museum, listening to the audio of the exhibit and hearing the eeriness in the disembodied voice of the woman. This is his first book. He lives on the central coast of California.
More about the author at www.discomermaids.blogspot.com

Genre

Realistic YA about suicide

Curriculum Ties

Should be required reading in a Life Skills class

Booktalking Ideas

1. Clay uncharacteristically steals a Walkman from his friend Tony's car.

2. Clay waits at the diner but can't figure out why Tony doesn't leave.

Reading/Interest Level

High school for both; not appropriate for middle school

Challenge Issues and Defense

suicide, rape scene, underage drinking

Strong anti-suicide message - book provides warning signs

Many awards including California Book Award winner, Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers (YALSA) and Best Books for Young Adults (also YALSA)

Why I Included This Book

I read the audiobook because it was a Selected Audiobook for YA and it was an excellent choice. The book was a NY Times Bestseller.