"On the Bright Side" by Anna Sortino [Review]

In a previous review, I noted that I grew up with a deaf sibling, which sparked my interest in this book. I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and Penguin Teens for reading and providing a review. After reading the first chapter, I was particularly intrigued to explore how the character Ellie navigates her experience of returning to a hearing school.

Ellie’s Deaf boarding school just shut down, forcing her to leave the place she considered home and return to her hearing family. Back in a mainstream school, Ellie quickly becomes the subject of hateful rumors. That’s when 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.

I found Jackson’s character to be exceptionally compelling, particularly as he navigated the complexities of accepting his newfound disability. It was heartening to observe Ellie’s significant role in this journey, particularly in light of her own struggles with disability throughout much of her life. Reflecting on their experiences prompted me to consider my own path. Growing up alongside a sibling with a disability, I was initially unaware that I, too, encountered similar challenges until well into adulthood. This realization added a personal dimension to the narrative that I genuinely appreciated. Additionally, I admired the manner in which the romance between Jackson and Ellie developed naturally over time, rather than feeling contrived or rushed. Their gradual bond lent an authenticity and relatability to their connection.

There were several aspects of the situation that I found unsatisfactory; however, one issue was particularly prominent: the initial interpreter assigned to Ellie at the hearing school. It appeared that she selectively interpreted Ellie's statements, opting to convey only certain elements rather than providing a comprehensive and accurate representation of Ellie’s communication. This situation left me feeling both frustrated and concerned regarding Ellie’s capacity to engage effectively with her peers. Furthermore, I was disturbed by the attitudes of some individuals who seemed to hold the belief that Ellie was not genuinely deaf solely based on her ability to speak. This misconception added a layer of challenge to her experience. It is essential to acknowledge that no individual chooses to have a disability, especially when such conditions do not pertain to matters of life or death. I will avoid further elaboration to prevent the escalation of any unnecessary conflict.

For those familiar with the author's prior works, as well as readers who value a charming and whimsical approach to romance, this publication represents a valuable enhancement to your literary collection. It is poised to elicit enjoyment and satisfaction among its audience.