"In today s world of very early identification of deafness, surgical implantation of cochlear implants and endless wireless technology and downloadable apps, Painting Bridges is magnificent in presenting a sensitive and accurate depiction of the 1970s. The novel presents a time when late identification of deafness was the norm, resulting in limited language and speech development,amplification equipment that was rudimentary and bulky, and deaf educators were at war with one another in pursuit of parents hearts and minds. Patricia Averbach has written a great historical novel documenting a contentious period in deaf education." -Beverly A. Goldstein, Ph.D