On the Bright Side
On the Bright Side by Anna Sortino, published by Penguin Group on July 1, 2025, is a 336-page novel written in English. This story centers on Ellie, who must leave her Deaf boarding school and navigate the challenges of mainstream public school life. With the help of Jackson, a student assigned to assist her, Ellie faces the complexities of adjusting to a new environment while dealing with her own identity and the changes that come with it.
Readers will find a narrative that delves into themes of love, disability, and the inevitability of change. As Ellie and Jackson confront their personal struggles, including Jackson’s mysterious health issues and Ellie’s transition, the story explores the importance of community and connection. This contemporary tale addresses social and family issues, making it a relevant read for those interested in coming-of-age stories and romance.
Official synopsis Publisher
A hopeful novel about love, disability, and the inevitability of change by the author of Give Me a Sign. Now in paperback!
“Poignant, romantic, and deeply heartfelt.” —Amber Smith, New York Times bestselling author of The Way I Used to Be
Ellie’s Deaf boarding school just shut down, forcing her to leave the place she considered home and return to her hearing family. But being mainstreamed into public school isn’t exactly easy. So her guidance counselor pairs her with Jackson, a student who’s supposed to help her adjust. Can the boy who tries to say the right things, and gets it all wrong, be the lifeline Ellie needs?
Jackson has been avoiding his teammates ever since some numbness in his legs cost them an important soccer match. With his senior year off to a lonely start, he’s intrigued when he’s asked to help the new girl, initially thinking it will be a commendable move on his part. Little does he know Ellie will soon be the person he wants most by his side when the strange symptoms he’s experiencing amount to a life-changing diagnosis.
Exploring what it means to build community, Anna Sortino pens a story about the fear of the unknown and the beauty of the unexpected, all wrapped up in a poignant romance that will break your heart and put it back together again.
“Tender, honest, and utterly human.” —Adib Khorram, award-winning author of Darius the Great Is Not Okay
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