Jay Asher is an accomplished American writer and novelist renowned for his bestselling book Thirteen Reasons Why, published in 2007. Born on September 30, 1975, in Arcadia, California, Jay Asher grew up in an environment that fostered his diverse interests, from playing the guitar to honing his writing skills.

Following high school, he attended Cuesta College, where he penned his first two children's books as part of a course on Children's Literature Appreciation. With a dream to become an elementary school teacher, he transferred to California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. However, he left during his senior year to focus on establishing himself as a serious writer.

Throughout his life, Asher has worked in a variety of roles, including a salesman in a shoe store and positions in libraries and bookstores, which have all enriched his literary journey.