On the Bright Side

On the Bright Side, written by Anna Sortino and published by G.P. Putnam's Sons, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

Book Cover for On the Bright Side. Two teenagers appear in profile holding hands and smiling at eachother. The teenage girl is light skin toned with medium length red hair and wears a cochlear implant. The teenage boy has medium skin tone and a cane can be seen in his right hand.

About

After Ellie’s residential Deaf school closes down, she begrudgingly moves home to attend public school and live with her unsupportive hearing family. She meets soccer star Jackson, who is unknowingly about to begin his own disability journey. Through their loving relationship, both teens grow in their independence and advocacy.

Awards Won

Title Year
Schneider Award Seal Schneider Family Book Award

The Schneider Family Book Awards honor an author or illustrator for a book that embodies an artistic expression of the disability experience for child and adolescent audiences.

 

Learn more about the history and criteria of the Schneider Family Book Award 

 

 


 


 

 

 2025 - Honor(s)