Students, parents, caregivers, teachers, and the general public are invited to attend a panel discussion this month on the teen novel and Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. Panelists will include Tracey Tucker, Executive Director of New Heights; Laura Rubin, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, Portsmouth Neuropsychology Center; and Jodie Lubowski from Seacoast Mental Health Center.
13 Reasons Why, by Jay Asher, is a teen novel published in 2007 and celebrating its 10th anniversary. Netflix produced an original TV series based on the book, which premiered in March 2017. Both the book and the show have sparked strong reactions, both positive and negative. Portsmouth Public Library’s Youth Services librarians are aware that the popular book is in bigger demand than ever since the show was aired. Knowing there are concerns about the way suicide is portrayed, we will offer a venue for people to talk about them.
The conversation, “13 Reasons Why Not” – named after a project underway by Oxford High School (MI) students – will take place on Tuesday, June 6 from 7 to 8:30 PM in the Levenson Room. Panelists will discuss the controversy; how parents & caregivers can support or set boundaries around their kids watching the show; strategies for discussing depression, mental illness and suicide; how to help at-risk teens access support, and more. Time will be provided for questions and group discussion.
We hope you will join us to connect with others around the issues raised by this story.
DATE & TIME: Tuesday June 6, at 7 – 8:30 PM
LOCATION: Portsmouth Public Library (175 Parrott Ave., Portsmouth, NH), Levenson Community Room
CONTACT: Laura Horwood-Benton, Librarian, lkhorwood-benton@cityofportsmouth.com (603 766 1711)
