I just finished reading Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher. This has been on my "to read" list for a long time, but I kept putting it off because of the content--suicide and the thirteen reasons why the girl did it. I didn't enjoy this book, but I certainly learned from it. The topic is one I usually push out of my mind, but the truth is some people think about it--a lot.
But my biggest question was for the author: why did you write this book? His answer was just what I needed to hear:
"Basically, even though Hannah admits that the decision to take her life was entirely her own, it's also important to be aware of how we treat others..."
While reading this book, I received a message from someone who I could tell needed some support. This book made me think about the person; I couldn't just shrug off or postpone a response. So I called the person immediately and not only did I help her but she helped me. And she was laughing by the end.
So, Mr. Asher, thank you for writing your book. We could all use reading something that makes us want to treat others better in the end.
I love your last comments-I think that life is about learning to think of others & treating them better. It is hard to read about sad things but sometimes it can change a perspective.Thanks for sharing. -Deborah Painter
ReplyDeleteHope all is well
Deborah! So good to hear from you! I'm glad you didn't find the post cheesy. It was how I felt. :)
ReplyDeleteSuicide's a difficult topic to read about. If you want a fascinating book on the subject (I'm sure it's in the library) read Beyond the Darkness by Angie Fenimore. It's autobiography. (From the intro it sounds like she might be LDS.) I'd be curious to know what you think--if you like to read non-fiction.
ReplyDeleteHope you're doing well. Jen says Hi.
Ann Best, Long Journey Home
I love books that make me think, and especially the kind that make me more aware of others. It's sounds like a very depressing story, but an important one to tell. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteI loved this book. I don't know if I'll ever read it again because it was really, really hard to read but I did love it. I was so grateful for what it taught me and how it made me more aware of others. In the end, I think that's the best thing.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad this book is out there, but I don't know if I'll be able to bring myself to read it. I do think the title and cover are AWESOME.
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