Jay Asher facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jay Asher
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![]() Asher at the Texas Book Festival in 2011
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Born | Arcadia, California, U.S. |
September 30, 1975
Occupation | Author |
Genre | Young adult |
Years active | 2007–present |
Notable works | Thirteen Reasons Why (2007) |
Spouse | Joan Marie (m. 2002 – div. c. 2018) |
Children | 1 |
Jay Asher (born September 30, 1975) is an American author. He is famous for writing the popular 2007 novel for young adults, Thirteen Reasons Why.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Asher was born in Arcadia, California. After high school, he went to Cuesta Community College. He later attended California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.
During his third year of college, he decided to leave to focus on his dream of becoming a writer. Before he became a successful author, Asher tried writing children's picture books. He also worked several jobs, including at a shoe store, a trophy shop, libraries, and bookstores.
Writing Career
Jay Asher has written four popular books for young adults. His most famous book, Thirteen Reasons Why, became a New York Times best-seller in 2007. This means it was one of the most-sold books in the country. The book won several awards and was praised by many other authors.
In 2017, Netflix turned Thirteen Reasons Why into a popular TV series. The actress and singer Selena Gomez was an executive producer for the show, which means she helped make important decisions about the series.
Disagreements and Career Changes
In 2017, some people made complaints about Asher's behavior. Because of these complaints, the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators announced that Asher was no longer a member. Asher said that he chose to leave on his own.
After these events, a spokesperson for Netflix stated that Asher would not be involved in making any more seasons of the 13 Reasons Why TV show.
Personal Life
Asher married Joan Marie in 2002. He lives in California.
Published Books
Young Adult Novels
- Thirteen Reasons Why (2007)
- This book tells the story of a girl named Hannah Baker. Before she takes her own life, she records audio tapes explaining the thirteen reasons for her decision. She has the tapes sent to her classmates, and they learn about the events that led to her choice. The story is also told from the point of view of Clay Jensen, one of the students who receives the tapes.
- The Future of Us (2011), co-written with Carolyn Mackler
- This novel is about two teenagers, Josh and Emma. In 1996, they discover a website that shows them their lives 15 years in the future. By looking at their future selves on Facebook, they find out they can make changes in the present to alter what happens later.
- What Light (2016)
- Sierra's family owns a Christmas tree farm in Oregon. Every year, they travel to California to sell their trees for the holiday season. Sierra feels like she lives two different lives. But one Christmas, she meets a boy named Caleb, and her life begins to change in unexpected ways.
Comics
- Piper (2017), a graphic novel he wrote with Jessica Freeburg.
Non-fiction
- Sunny Boy: More Than a Family Story (2017), a book about his family.
TV Shows Based on His Work
- 13 Reasons Why (2017–2020), a Netflix series based on his novel.
See also
In Spanish: Jay Asher para niños