This was a reread for me.  I have to admit, I don't do a lot of rereads because there are too many books that I want to read and to stop and do a reread, if just not something I normally do.  When I saw this book last month, in my bookclub's bag, I was pumped!  Finally, a YA book for us to read and also, one of my favorites.

 

I had a feeling that this book would have mixed reviews at bookclub, as we have an older crowd that normally shows up.  Like most bookclubs, there are a few who are very vocal about their opinions and I was hoping we would have some good discussions pertaining to this novel.  Surprise!  Most everyone liked the novel.  There were some questions about the novel and there were some parts that individuals didn't care for but everyone liked it.  We had some great discussions and trips down memory lane, as we chatted about the novel.  

 

 

In our bookclub discussions, we discussed the other characters in the story and their importance.  We talked about the importance of Clay's trip around town and whether that enhanced the story or not.  The question about Hannah's purpose and whether we thought her purpose was successful provoked some interesting conversations.  I thought that Hannah put a lot of trust in Tony, which I thought was interesting considering all the other people she included on her tapes.  What was Hannah real purpose though for making these tapes?  It wasn't as if everyone received their own tape. No, everyone got to listen to the whole story, how they each played a part in Hannah's life. Everyone on the tape heard Hannah's side of the story, but for what purpose? Did she want them to feel guilty/bad/good?  Did she do it to just let them know that they have have this effect on people?  Did she want some action to take place after she was gone?   

 

As I reread this novel, there were parts of the novel that quickly came back to me and others that I saw in a new light.   The novel still impressed upon me the magnitude an individual can have upon another human being, whether positive or negative.  Whether it be for a few minutes or longer, its how we treat one another that makes a difference. 

 

Discussing this novel in bookclub, I rediscovered this novel all over again. 

 

Used this novel for Snakes and Ladders - square 39: A reread - finally a book that fits the square!

Can't wait to watch 13 Reasons Why season 2 next week on Netflix . . . .

 

 

Going into the book, I knew Thirteen Reasons Why was a controversial book. I have personally battled depression in the past, but have never been near suicidal. So while I can't comment on the authenticity of how this story represents the mindset of someone who is suicidal, I can certainly believe that it rings true to at least some people. I watched the Netflix series as well, and there were differences. There were parts I thought played out better in the book and others I thought were more impactful in the series. I'll focus on the book here.

 

Hannah isn't a particularly likable character. In some ways, I'm glad for that though. The reader has to work a bit harder to maintain empathy with the narrator, and working harder for it makes you think a bit more about the circumstances. 

 

I don't think this book had anything that was a profoundly new concept. As I read through each of the 13 reasons, I had a memory flash of when something similar happened to me growing up. Things for teens may be more pronounced these days with the inclusion of social media, but it's not new stuff. Kids are cruel - always have been and always will be. Those cruel words and actions will have an impact on others. Some will get over it and some won't. Some will even be able to use it to make them stronger. I do think it might be more difficult to escape these days from cruel behavior because of how easily rumors and bullying can spread through social media, and I know that can be a real challenge. So even though not a profound new look at the struggles of teens, it's a unique way to bring forth the reminders that if we could all just be a bit kinder then we might actually make a huge impact in someone else's life. 

 

I do wish the book would have gone more into Hannah's mental health. Many kids go through similar experiences, yet they don't commit or even attempt suicide. Someone who is willing to carry it through has much deeper needs - and unfortunately the book didn't touch on that at all. 

 

I'd also like to point out that this is the kind of book that parents should read with their child. Some have slammed this book for the danger it causes because it glamorizes suicide and somewhat gives a pass as to why it's OK. Some will see it that way. Others won't. That's why it's important to read it with your teen and talk about it. 

Book Reviewed: Thirteen Reasons Why
Author: Jay Asher
Publication Date: 6/14/2011
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 4 Stars


REVIEW
I listened to this book via Audible, I have watched the show, and now I have read the book.
I feel this book is an awaking to those bullies out there. Thirteen tapes are sent out after a young girl takes her own life after enduring heartless and cruel bullying and other things.
The book was well written, and well thought out.
I do however think if you want your young adults to read it perhaps speak to them about the story and what it entails. And although I enjoyed this story I feel like we weren't given everything and I felt like something was missing in the end.
I personally enjoyed the book.