13 Reasons Why: Score 3.5
“There are 13 sides to every story.”
Except not in this book. You only get 2 sides to this story.
Recommended if you like intriguing contemporary novels.
This is a fast paced & compelling page turner about why Hannah died. You’d think it would be mysterious & subtle but it’s not. The novel hints at a big reveal that never really comes. Because there isn’t one big, tragic reason why she dies… It’s more about her struggle with depression & being bullied & sexually assaulted & not knowing how to ask for help. Hannah makes 13 tapes where she records everything anyone’s ever done to wrong her and complains about how unfair her life is. She lets herself dissolve into despair and suicidal depression. She expects everyone to notice her suffering & rescue her. Then blames them for her suicide.
But it’s somewhat understandable, because she’s young, lonely, continually taken advantage of & has no idea how to communicate her struggles.
——This is now on Netflix! I recommend skipping the read & binging the show. It’s really well done and it’s better than the book! Also it’s suspenseful, the plot makes way more sense & actually takes the time to tell all the other characters stories! Also Hannah’s depression & struggles are much more justified & explained in the show.