Thirteen Reasons Why

Thirteen Reasons Why

2007 • 288 pages

Ratings365

Average rating3.5

15

Do not read this if you have any mental illnesses. I REPEAT: DO NOT READ THIS IF YOU HAVE ANY MENTAL ILLNESSES. This story screams of “written by a neurotypical,” and most people I know who enjoy this book have no idea what extreme mental illness, depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies, etc. look like. I'm lucky as hell I am not suicidal or severely depressed, but I have a good friend who is and this book fucked her up. And that doesn't even come close to the show.

The writing isn't bad. It's the idea that upsets so many (including MH Professionals). I don't think Asher intended to hurt anyone, and he's not a bad writer, but the idea is the epitome of “suicide can be a revenge act! Off yourself and everyone will be sorry they were mean to you!” - which sadly makes an impression on the impressionable (kids, young girls and boys in HS or MS).