13 Reasons Why came out in 2007 and remains popular with teens to this date. In a world of “flavour of the month” cultural infatuations, the book’s continued popularity says a lot about the sensitive chord it touches in readers and the way in which it reflects the particular concerns and realities of young adults. I have been having some trouble expressing how I feel about 13 Reasons Why, as well as the outburst or outrage that has accompanied the Netflix show and, collaterally, the book.

I came across this latest blog post from Literacy & NCTE (always a great read), and it reflected what I felt, what I had trouble expressing.  The tone is measured, the purpose is clear, and the arguments are balanced. It’s a short but powerful entry that looks at responses from the author, Jay Asher, adults, and young adults. The many hyperlinks contribute to and promote discussion, take a minute to click and read them, you won’t be disappointed.

 

Common Sense Education has also done a good blog post on this issue and includes links to other resources and some of the great Digital Citizenship lessons that Common Sense has created. I suggest you take a look at this one as well.

 

Suzanne Nesbitt