Thirteen Reasons Why: Introductions & Cassette 1: Sides A & B Summary & Analysis

Introduction

• An unnamed person mails a box of tapes, each addressed to the next name on Hannah Baker's list.
• The person reflects on how the tapes and the high school setting will always remind them of the events surrounding Hannah.
• Mr. Porter is the last person on Hannah's list to receive the tapes.

Summary: Yesterday, One Hour After School

• Clay Jensen receives a package of seven cassette tapes.
  • Each tape has numbered sides; the last tape has only side 13.
• Clay finds an old stereo in his garage to listen to the tapes.

Cassette 1: Side A

• Hannah Baker introduces herself on the tapes, despite having recently committed suicide.
• She explains that the tapes will narrate her life story and reasons for her suicide.
• Rules: Recipients must listen to all tapes and pass them to the next person on the list.
  • Non-compliance will result in the tapes being publicly released.
• Clay is confused about his inclusion on the tapes.
• Justin Foley is the subject of the first tape:
  • Hannah's first kiss with Justin and subsequent rumors damaged her reputation.
  • Clay recalls how he met Hannah and decides to borrow a Walkman from his friend Tony to continue listening.

Cassette 1: Side B

• Alex Standall is the next subject:
  • Created a list ranking girls' physical attributes, putting Hannah under "Best Ass."
  • This led to unwanted attention and perpetuated rumors.
• Clay walks to significant locations marked on a map Hannah provided, reflecting on their meanings.
• The episode at Blue Spot Liquor illustrates the list's impact, resulting in a classmate inappropriately touching Hannah.
• The tape ends with a reference to Jessica Davis being next.

Analysis

• Suicide's Ripple Effect:
  • Hannah's death affects many beyond her immediate circle.
  • Clay's reaction illustrates his complex feelings about Hannah’s death.
• Destructive Power of Rumors:
  • Justin's exaggeration of his relationship with Hannah leads to damaging rumors.
  • Clay's perception of Hannah was affected by these rumors.
• Reputation and Identity:
  • Hannah's identity reduced to a single trait because of Alex's list.
  • The list results in unwanted recognition and assault, showing widespread impact.
• Hannah's Empowerment:
  • Through the tapes, Hannah takes control of her story and identity.
  • Her instructions on how the tapes should be managed emphasize her regained power.
  • The tapes recreate the isolation and fear she felt, aiming to instill understanding and remorse in the recipients.
  • Hannah's actions, though seeming harsh, reflect the treatment she endured and her attempt to reclaim her narrative.