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The Story:
Life for Alex Schrader has never involved girls. He goes to an all-boys prep school and spends most of his time goofing around with his friends. But all that changes the first time he meets Bijou Doucet, a Haitian girl recently relocated to Brooklyn after the earthquake-and he is determined to win her heart. For Bijou, change is the only constant, and she’s surprised every day by how different life is in America, especially when a boy asks her out. Alex quickly learns that there are rules when it comes to girls-both in Haitian culture and with his own friends. And Bijou soon learns that she doesn’t have to let go of her roots to find joy in her new life.
The Reviews:
“Surviving middle school and puberty is an age-old challenge that video cameras and YouTube have only complicated, as vividly demonstrated in this enjoyable, seriocomic tale of new love, culture clash, adolescent social stratification and friendship.” – Kirkus Reviews
“A Song for Bijou is a beautifully written story of first love, and so much more. Issues of racism, bullying, and cultural differences make it a great read-aloud or book club choice for middle school students who love to discuss and debate serious issues.” – Secrets & Sharing Sodas
“Alex and Bijou’s narrative voices are distinct and authentic. Readers will admire his heroic traits and sympathize with her conflicting loyalties.” – Publishers Weekly
“The story is well crafted, and the alternating points of view between Bijou and Alex keep it interesting. The bullies are accurate in their cruelty, and the dynamics among the characters are well done. Great for discussion.” – School Library Journal
“Farrar takes his time with this book, telling a quiet, sweet story about friendship and self-discovery…Characters, both major and minor, are complex and believable. The portrayal of middle school is spot-on.” – VOYA
“Haiti is a proud country, with a rich culture and history – food, music, kicking slavery’s butt…and the author touches on these things with intent…there aren’t a whole lot of interracial romance novels that are so free from the expected drama – this one works.” – Finding Wonderland
Press:
Review of the Day: A Song for Bijou by Josh Farrar – Elizabeth Bird
Review: A Song for Bijou by Josh Farrar – Secrets & Sharing Soda
Cover Stories: A Song for Bijou – Melissa Walker
Zou Bisou Bisou, Bijou – Corrective Lenses
