Th1rteen R3asons Why by Jay Asher

Author: Jay Asher
Genre: Mystery, Issue
Rating: 10
Teach-ability: 8
Teachable Aspects: plot, setting, character, perspective/point of view, teenage issues

This is a beautifully written story about such a dark subject: suicide. Although a topic that should be discussed, because it affects so many, usually it is one that is pushed aside in schools. A blind eye is turned when a hand should be reached out.

The story is told in a very unique way and simultaneously by two people. In italics are the words of Hannah heard through the main character, Clay. Clay often reacts to what is said by Hannah, his crush who has recently killed herself.

The dynamic of the two characters and their one-sided conversations is done very well and is strong throughout the novel. You are able to get to know both characters well through their own words and stories, but also through the stories of their other half.

The story is executed precisely. Enough is disclosed of the story in perfect timing. Just enough is shared. The tale unfolds at a readable (not too slow) and reflect-able (not too fast) pace. Just the right details are left hidden, allowing the reader to fill in the blanks for themselves. An element of the book that is really reflective is that of perspective--how the way you see a situation, person or emotion can be drastically different than what really occurs, and how that truth can be so devastating.

The book is elegant, beautiful, sullen, and sad. It fills your heart with sadness and leaves you questioning humans and their actions, their ability to destruct and the emotions that they evoke.

This book would serve wonderfully as a therapeutic read, but it is also just a book that forces the mind to reflect on the teenage experience as a whole. I would recommend this read to just about any student (perhaps there is an age boundary of high school students). A wonderful novel.