Hannah Survived in '13 Reasons Why' Original Book Version, Author Jay Asher Reveals

Before books are published, they go through many different phases — first drafts, second drafts, final edits…the list keeps going.

So it’s not really a surprise that in one version of “13 Reasons Why”, Hannah survives.

“I liked the idea of ‘We’ve learned something from this. And yet, here’s a second chance,’” author Jay Asher revealed about the original ending. “Knowing as well that it was going to be difficult when Hannah went back to school to have to deal with those kids.”


“It’s not like everything’s smooth now. In fact, it might be even tenser for her. But now there’s Clay, who’s going to be upfront that he’s there for her.”

But once Jay re-read the final edits he made, he changed his mind.

“Out of seriousness for the issue, we realized we can’t go there,” he adds. “No matter that there were missed opportunities for her. Those opportunities aren’t there if you do this.”

He continued, “Once I realized that the message of the story would be stronger and that it would definitely be more of a cautionary tale. I felt that was definitely the way to go. That’s why Skye’s character made a reappearance, which was cool to see her have a bigger role throughout the TV series.”

13 Reasons Why is currently streaming on Netflix.