13 Reasons Why

Thirteen reasons why is a powerful novel written by Jay Asher about a young, high school girl who struggles with her purpose in life.  The story revolves around the thirteen reasons why she felt like her life was just too much to handle and why she wanted it to end. Before she committed suicide, Hannah recorded audiotapes explaining the 13 reasons that lead up to her decision.  She pinpoints one person for every reason and puts them on a mailing list.  She sends the tapes to the first person on the list and gives directions on how the tapes must be passed on until they reach all 13 people.  The author tells the story from two different perspectives; one from Hannah's perspective and the other from the ninth boy on the list. Readers see inside Hannah's life and understand how she came to her tragic decision, while also understanding Clay's perspective as a person on the list.  Clay does not feel like he should be on the list and struggles with his emotions as he listens to the tapes leading up to his own. This book really pulls at your emotions and makes you think about life and the impact you have on others.  The storyline is rather deep and may not be suitable for all teen readers; however, the author shares many valuable lessons that can be taken away.