‘13 Reasons Why’ author Jay Asher to visit Main Library

Suicide prevention events to be held at branches

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Thirteen Reasons Why’s first publication. Author Jay Asher, who penned the New York Times bestselling book that went on to become a popular Netflix series, is speaking at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, in the Reading Garden Lounge at the Main Library. Library Foundation Writer-in-Residence Kurt Dinan is moderating the discussion.

The award-winning young adult novel tells the story of shy high school student Clay Jensen, who returns home from school to find a mysterious box with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker—his classmate and crush—who committed suicide two weeks earlier. On tape, Hannah explains that there are 13 reasons why she decided to end her life. Through Hannah and Clay’s dual narratives, Asher weaves an intricate tale of confusion and desperation.

In conjunction with this author visit, the Library is holding three “Surviving the Teens” events. Participants can learn and discuss strategies for coping, stressors associated with depression and suicide, and how to access referral sources. The events are presented by the Division of Psychiatry at Cincinnati Children's Hospital and are designed for teens ages 12–18 years. No registration is required.

A representative from Children’s Hospital’s Division of Psychiatry also is available at the Jay Asher event Sept. 8 to provide mental health and suicide prevention resources, and answer questions.

Asher is signing books after speaking. Books are available for purchase at the event courtesy of Joseph-Beth Booksellers. This is part of the Main Library’s Author Series.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jay Asher was born and raised in California and has worked at bookstores and libraries. His debut YA novel, Thirteen Reasons Why, became a No. 1 New York Times and USA Today bestseller. In 2017, it was released as a Netflix original series. His second YA novel, The Future of Us, was co-authored with Printz Honor-winner Carolyn Mackler. His third YA novel, What Light, was released in 2016. And his first graphic novel, Piper, is being released for Halloween in 2017. His books are published in 40 languages. When he is not writing, Asher plays guitar and goes camping. He lives in California with his family.

FOR MEDIA USE

  • Mental Health Access Point: 513-558-8888
  • Psychiatric Emergency Services: University Hospital: 513-584-8577
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK(8255) https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
  • Crisis Text Line: Text “Start” to 741 741
  • Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Surviving the Teens Suicide Prevention Program: http://cinlib.org/2vnDZ3E
    • Tip Sheet for Parents (PDF attached)
    • Warning Signs of Suicide (PDF attached)
    • Tips for Coping with Depression (PDF attached)