Anti-bullying author brings message to Lake Park

The author of the best-selling "Thirteen Reasons Why," a book that has become an anti-bullying anthem across the country, spoke with students during all-school assemblies Monday at both campuses of Lake Park High School in Roselle.

Jay Asher also signed copes of his young adult book that stresses the importance of recognizing the effect words and actions have on others and the concept that every person matters.

Lake Park students have been discussing the book and issues such as bullying, rumors and suicide during literacy circles held during lunch periods.

The school's English department, in conjunction with its Stand for the Silent club and the Lake Park library staff, launched a "Pass the Book" campaign in September to encourage students to read "Thirteen Reasons Why."

Asher's appearance coincides with Anti-Bullying Awareness Month and is one of the first stops on his "50 States Against Bullying" tour.

That tour will continue Tuesday when Asher visits Fenton High School.