Fourth Book of Christmas: Thirteen Reasons Why

Honestly, I was kinda hesitant to read this book. Having read the synopsis and learning that it’s a book about suicide, I admit I had second thoughts. Not really a fan of death-pain-grief-themed book, and all that. But after reading some reviews (and very good ones, at that!), the bookworm in me just could not resist a good read to just slip out of my hand, and really Jay Asher did not disappoint.

　　

Thirteen Reasons Why is the tragic and heart-breaking story of a teenage girl named Hannah Baker, who was a victim of false rumors and eventually committed suicide due to depression. Prior to taking her own life, Hannah made tape recordings explaining and stating thirteen reasons (which apparently pointed to thirteen people who made her life miserable and made her feel so alone) why she did what she did. She then proceeded to mailing the first set of tapes to the first person on the list and specifically asked that person to pass the recordings to the next person until the last person on her list hears it.  She wanted people to understand what she went through with the help of the records. The story was narrated through the dual perspectives of Hannah and Clay Jensen - who was included in the list but somehow managed to be on the good side of Hannah and who always had a crush on her but didn’t know how to pursue his feelings because of her reputation in the school.

　　

I dunno why some people didn’t like it - said, Hannah’s reasons were lame and weak to end her life just like that. But for me it wasn't about her reasons in any way. It was about her story and what happened to her life that needs to be told over and over again because teenagers should never feel or even think about committing suicide at all. Yes, it was a sad (and really heartrending) book but it was a good sad. You know what I mean? I really encourage everyone to read it. It will show you just how much the littlest of things we do or say to another person can affect that person’s life.

　　

　　“You can’t stop the future, you can’t rewind the past, the only way to learn the secrets is to press play.” –Hannah Baker

　　

Let's all think before we act or even speak, yes?

Joey

P.S. I just found out that this book actually has a website and you can hear Hannah's records there yourself which is so cool and a little creepy. Haha. I'm hoping I will find the time to read this again (because really, it's that good!) while listening to it. Now, that's a plan. :)