This week’s book recommendation is Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher. I read this book about a year ago. It was first recommended to me by a friend (thanks Fede) probably four or five years ago and I eventually got around to reading it. For some reason, it seems like the right time to be recommending this book. With everything that has happened recently and the topic of mental health in the news, along with my own history, I think there are many reasons I’m recommending this book this week. This book does revolve around the taboo subject of suicide, which has made it a controversial book that has been banned in a few areas. Netflix has made an adaptation of this book as well. I haven’t seen it myself but hear it follows the book pretty closely but does change a few things and extends the story beyond what is in the book.

Thirteen Reasons Why takes place after Hannah Baker commits suicide. The story itself follows Clay Jensen after he receives a set of tapes. These tapes were made by Hannah and detail the events that led up to her final decision. The story unfolds and I won’t say much more because you should read it yourself. Yes, the subject matter isn’t something anyone wants to talk about, but maybe this book can be a key to helping you understand why it shouldn’t be a topic to avoid simply because it makes you uneasy. I read this book in about two days. It’s quick, engaging, and thought-provoking. I hope you can give it a chance.

This book can open discussions previously dismissed too often and too early. It also shows us how things can snowball out of control. It details how small things for one person can be large things to another. I believe it ultimately encourages us to be kind to each other. To open ourselves and improve communication. In the end, it left me with a more hopeful outlook. It didn’t leave me sad or wanting to be alone. It made me want to go see my friends and have a good time. To enjoy the life I have, and I hope it will do the same for you.

Happy Reading;