Thirteen Reasons Why
Here's what we found in Thirteen Reasons Why. Every family is different — get a report that reflects yours.
Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to Thirteen Reasons Why
Thirteen Reasons Why is a contemporary young adult novel that delves into the profound and devastating impact of bullying, betrayal, and sexual assault on a teenager's mental health, ultimately leading to suicide. The narrative unfolds through a series of cassette tapes left behind by Hannah Baker, the protagonist, who details the thirteen individuals and events she holds responsible for her decision to end her life. Her classmate, Clay Jensen, receives these tapes and, over a single night, listens to Hannah's recordings, unraveling the complex web of interactions that contributed to her despair. The book is a poignant exploration of consequences and the interconnectedness of human actions. It addresses deeply sensitive and mature themes, prompting readers to consider the hidden struggles of others and the profound ripple effects of their own behavior. The story aims to spark important conversations about mental health, empathy, and the critical need for support systems within high school environments, making it a powerful, albeit challenging, read for its target audience.
Things to Consider
Violence
The book contains significant themes of violence, particularly sexual assault and suicide, which are central to the plot. While Hannah's suicide is less graphically described than in the TV series, the act and its ramifications are intensely present.
Hannah Baker's suicide by taking pills is a core event in the narrative. A key violent act is the rape of Jessica by Bryce, which Hannah witnesses and describes on her tapes. Additionally, a fistfight between two boys occurs at a party.
Romance and Sexual Content
The novel includes explicit discussions of sexual assault and its aftermath, with graphic descriptions of non-consensual sexual acts. Casual sexual rumors and stalking also contribute to a pervasive sense of sexualized harassment.
Profanity
The book contains frequent use of strong language, including specific expletives and crude terms for private anatomy. God's name is also frequently misused.
Scary & Intense Content
The book is inherently intense and disturbing, with the central plot revolving around suicide, its motivations, and the severe emotional trauma experienced by teenagers due to bullying and sexual assault.
Disrespect & Rebellion
The core premise of the book involves Hannah Baker's act of blaming and exposing individuals, including peers and an authority figure, for her suicide, demonstrating significant disrespect and a form of posthumous rebellion.
Would these 5 concerns matter to your family?
Get a report based on your values — not generic ratings.
Additional Context
Best For Ages
15+ due to mature and intensely graphic themes including suicide, sexual assault, and strong language. The book's content requires a level of maturity to process and discuss responsibly.
Good to Know
The book has been widely debated, with some critics expressing concern that its portrayal of suicide could be seen as glamorizing the act or offering an unrealistic view of depression as a reaction to external events. Parents should be aware that while the book addresses serious issues, it does so from a subjective and often vengeful perspective of the deceased protagonist. It is crucial for parents to engage in discussions with their teens about the themes presented, including the complexities of mental health, the importance of seeking help, and healthy coping mechanisms, as the book itself does not explicitly offer solutions or pathways to recovery for Hannah.
What are you reading next?
Screen any title in seconds — even ones no one else has reviewed.
No credit card required — join hundreds of families