I have extremely mixed emotions about this novel. That's partly reflected in the fact that it's taken me years to read it. I've had this book on my shelf for about 10 years and finally started reading it last year after the TV show released so that I could be more knowledgeable about it should middle school families ask me about it. But, I put it down so many times in the midst of reading, I've just finished it now... The mix of reactions includes frustration, appreciation, sadness, anger, and overall questioning about the way the characters act and do or don't help themselves and each other. The novel does do an excellent job of relaying warning signs of suicidal ideations, I personally had a difficult time not being completely frustrated with the characters and that detracted from being able to appreciate the way the author was trying to both tell a compelling story and be of use to opening up a conversation about depression, bystanderism, support, and suicide. I have not yet made a decision as to if I'll watch the TV show....