The Lighthouse

by Amanda Bernardo

The Lighthouse is a story that aims to educate, support, and remind all those affected by mental illness that they are not alone. Through the power of literature and illustration, this open, honest and brave story supports all those who may be suffering in silence by breaking the very stigma that holds them hostage. The story serves as a symbolic reminder of the support, strength and hope that is represented by the lighthouse, and aims to teach its readers to become a beacon of light in their own communities.

48 pages, Paperback

Published June 28, 2025

About the author

Amanda Bernardo is a Canadian children’s book author based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

In 2014, Amanda set out to publish her first children’s book, Little Voice, and later its French counterpart, La petite voix. She then went on to publish her second book in 2017, The Lighthouse, which is also available in French, Le phare.

Since 2014, Little Voice has been recognized by Scholastic as one of the top inspirational books of 2015, in addition to being featured by the Governor General of Canada. Both books are available through retailers such as Chapters, Indigo, and Coles, as well as in elementary school libraries across Canada.

Using her books as a means to give back, Amanda has donated over $11,000 to support programs and charities across Canada, including the Alzheimer Society of Canada, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and a number of community initiatives.

Amanda is currently working on publishing her third children’s book inspired by her road to motherhood.