Playlist for the Dead

Ok, I have spoken before on LisaTalksAbout.com about the strange trend in YA fiction of writing about suicide; this is the topic of Michelle Falkoff’s debut novel Playlist for the Dead. Unlike other novels that have chosen this subject matter, the actual suicide doesn’t play that big a role. It is more about the devastation for those who are left to pick up the pieces.In Playlist for the Dead, Sam finds his best friend Hayden, dead. It is confirmed as suicide but there is nothing to indicate why except for a memory stick with a playlist on left to Sam saying that it should make him understand. However, Sam harbours a lot of guilt over Hayden’s death. The night before they had argued and now Sam feels responsible. However, slowly he realises that other people feel the same. A mystery over who is actually responsible for his death starts to unravel and Sam knows that he has to keep hunting for the reason that Hayden killed himself.Playlist for the Dead is a damn good YA novel; one that I read in one sitting. Michelle Falkoff deals with the different emotions felt – sadness, anger, confusion etc – with sensitivity. She focuses on those that are left to deal with death rather than glorifying the act of suicide. Playlist for the Dead is one of the better YA Fiction novels I have read this year.Playlist for the Dead by Michelle Falkoff is available now.Follow Michelle Falkoff (@MichelleFalkoff) on Twitter.

I wasn't sure what to expect from this book but a book with a playlist of new songs was not something I wanted to miss.I enjoyed the beginning better than the end to be honest. Some parts of the conclusion seemed a little rushed. But I can forgive that as the book was good overall.The inclusion of music was a really good idea. As it gave a glimpse of Hayden's state of mind at the time. Even if some of the songs seemed a little obvious maybe? Unoriginal? Lacking as much thought as the others. But it really added to the experience of the book and you should try listening to the stories if you at all can.All in all a good book which I would certainly recommend.

I really wanted to like this book, but I found myself slipping through some pages as I found it very slow and hard to stay interested in, unfortunately I never made it to the end of the book as I just couldn't stay engaged with it.

This book conveys a serious message about the meaning of life, love and friendship. It is tragic and touching, yet extraordinarily uplifting. I would compare it to The Fault in our Stars, as they both are trying to teach a very important lesson to children like us. You shouldn't hesitate before reading this book,as it is the most gripping thing I've ever read. If you are aged around 12 to 15, this book will be perfect for you. Be prepared to cry, though!!!!😀😁😳😊😎

I enjoyed the show Thirteen Reasons Why but found the book to be a little dull, a little too simplified in writing. I'm not saying this one is majorlly different but it does flow better with likeable characters throughout.

My 13-year-old son's favourite book. I agree it is very well written and fascinating.

Seriously, one of the most beautiful and haunting books I've ever read. I loved the ending, so realistic and surprising.

really enjoyed