Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher is a compelling yet controversial novel that explores the delicate issues of teenage mental health and suicide. Readers find its narrative gripping and thought-provoking. However, criticisms include its graphic content and perceived romanticization of suicide. The book effectively sparks important conversations but is not suitable for all audiences.

A reader who would enjoy Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher is typically a young adult interested in contemporary fiction that tackles complex issues such as mental health, bullying, and the consequences of actions. Fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky and Looking for Alaska by John Green would find this book compelling.

In Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, high-schooler Hannah Baker dies by suicide and leaves behind cassette tapes for 13 classmates explaining how each contributed to her decision, shocking the recipient Clay Jensen and exposing the cascading events of false rumors, betrayals, and distress that led to her tragic end. Readers may encounter descriptions of sexual violence, substance abuse, and suicide.

Jay Asher

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Thirteen Reasons Why and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Thirteen Reasons Why Summary

Background

Thirteen Reasons Why Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Cassette 1: Sides A and B

Thirteen Reasons Why Prologue-Cassette 1: Sides A and B Summary & Analysis

Cassette 2: Sides A and B

Thirteen Reasons Why Cassette 2: Sides A and B Summary & Analysis

Cassette 3: Sides A and B-Cassette 4: Side A

Thirteen Reasons Why Cassette 3: Sides A and B-Cassette 4: Side A Summary & Analysis

Cassette 4: Side B-Cassette 5: Sides A and B

Thirteen Reasons Why Cassette 4: Side B-Cassette 5: Sides A and B Summary & Analysis

Cassette 6: Side A-Epilogue

Thirteen Reasons Why Cassette 6: Side A-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Thirteen Reasons Why Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Thirteen Reasons Why Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Thirteen Reasons Why Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Thirteen Reasons Why Literary Devices

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Thirteen Reasons Why Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Thirteen Reasons Why Essay Topics

Thirteen Reasons Why Further Reading & Resources

Thirteen Reasons Why

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Thirteen Reasons Why?

Reading Age

Book Details