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Look on the Bright Side

#2 in Go with the Flow Series

4.17
on Goodreads (841)

What’s inside...

The creators of Eisner-nominated Go With the Flow, Lily Williams and Karen Schneemann, are back with a heartwarming story in their new graphic novel, Look on the Bright Side. It follows four best friends, Brit, Abby, Christine, and Sasha, as they navigate a new school year at Hazelton High. With old friends, new loves, and the future looking bright, the girls face feelings, misunderstandings, betrayal, and jealousy. Brit struggles with her feelings for a boy who may be more than he seems, while Christine grapples with her romantic feelings for her best friend Abby, unsure if Abby feels the same way. Despite the challenges, they remain united, proving that friendship can help them overcome anything.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

10-14

Length

336 pages

Text complexity

Discussion points

What does it mean to 'look on the bright side' according to the story?
How did the characters handle challenges or setbacks in the book?
Can you think of a time when you turned a difficult situation into a positive one like the characters did?
Why is it important to stay positive in tough times?
How do you think being positive can change our feelings and actions in everyday life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a calm and encouraging tone to discuss the book's themes and to help your child open up about their feelings and experiences.
Relate the book's messages to personal experiences or current events in their life to make the discussion more relevant and meaningful.
Praise your child for sharing their thoughts and feelings, reinforcing the importance of expression and positive thinking.
Encourage your child to think of practical ways they can 'look on the bright side' in various situations, helping them to apply the book’s lessons in real life.
Read together regularly and use this book as a reference during challenging times to remind them of the power of positivity.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Optimism
Explanation: The book 'Look on the Bright Side' encourages children to always find the positive aspect in every situation, which is demonstrated through the character's adventures where they are faced with challenges but choose to focus on the good.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach everyday challenges, like a difficult homework assignment or a disagreement with a friend, by looking for positive outcomes or lessons learned.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters encounter various setbacks, but they demonstrate resilience by bouncing back each time, showing kids that it's okay to face difficulties and rise above them.
Real-World Application: This lesson can empower children to not give up easily when faced with difficulties in school or in extracurricular activities, teaching them the power of perseverance.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story also highlights how the characters understand and share the feelings of others, teaching children the importance of considering other people's perspectives and feelings.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by developing stronger relationships with siblings and peers by being considerate of their emotions and situations.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: In 'Look on the Bright Side', the protagonist often reflects on what they are thankful for, instilling a sense of gratitude towards the positive aspects of life.
Real-World Application: Children can practice daily reflections on what they are thankful for, enhancing their overall happiness and satisfaction.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: The book shows characters creatively solving problems that arise, which encourages children to think critically and innovatively when faced with their own challenges.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child's life by encouraging them to think of multiple ways to solve a problem, whether it's a puzzle, a social conflict, or a practical task in their daily routine.

Look on the Bright Side by Lily Williams, Karen Schneemann