Now... where do I begin? I saw this book at the library and though, "Hey! This seems like a good book to read. Why don't I take it home with me?" Well, I did... and I'm glad I did. The book is not without fault, mind you. There were certain aspects to the book that just pissed me off. I was particularly fond of Hannah's character. Yes, she was victimized by a lot of jerks. However, there were times when I felt that she brought it upon herself. She caused a lot of her own misery and it's hard for me to sympathize with someone like that. However, I feel that, because of what happened to her, it helped Clay, who was a very good character, realize his own inabilities to act out on his feelings. In the end, I feel as if he benefited from Hannah's misery, which is awful to say but it's true.Jay Asher did an excellent job in writing this. I really enjoyed his writing style. It was very easy to follow and it kept you engaged in the story. I believe it was his writing that made me enjoy this book all the more because Hannah was doing nothing to win me over. However, I don't think his goal was to get the reader to like her. In fact, his message was quite clear. If you see anyone that's acting out in a bizarre manner or is just... not themselves, then do something about it. Do not be inactive because it's your decision of inactivity that can make or break a person. If you see signs, get help immediately. That was his message and... I got that loud and clear. Unfortunately, not a lot of people act... I know that to be a fact. Still, his message is inspiring if nothing else.
All-in-all, I do recommend you read this at least once. It's a pretty good book for people to read. "Suicide" is such a taboo subject and not a lot of people seem to talk about it so I really believe some could benefit from this. Just keep in mind that reading some of the things Hannah goes through can be frustrating only because she brought on most of it herself. If you can get over that fact, then I think you can enjoy this read.
