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A Song for Bijou by Josh Farrar
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. Told in alternating viewpoints against the vibrant backdrop of Haitian-American culture, Alex and Bijou take their first tender steps toward love in this heartwarming story.
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First published February 1, 2013
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June 19, 2014
This looks soooo AWESOME!!!
NO, this book was AWESOME! It hit all The Fountain Pen Diva's happy buttons. I realize this is middle grade, but it's not dumbed-down in the least. Not to mention a New York that is realistically diverse.
One of the surest ways to end up in The Fountain Pen Diva's crosshairs? Write about a cosmopolitan city like New York and whitewash the entire cast.
Once again I have to thank the awesome Libertad for knowing just what The Fountain Pen Diva needed after so much recent and depressing IR fail. Firstly, this book was all kinds of sweet and cute. Alex, Bijou and their diverse friends are people I wish I'd known back in junior high school. And yes, while Alex is total jailbait lol, he's become another of my favourite fictional boyfriends. I loved how adork-able he was; trying to be smooth and sometimes making a mess of it. I adored how he saw Bijou and that was all they wrote. No hand-wringing, no angst (save how to get to know the object of his affections better).
I've been to Haiti. A long time ago when it was still on the cruise ship itinerary. Yes, there were poor people (name me somewhere on this planet that doesn't have poverty of some sort). There were also beautiful homes, and everyone I met was gracious. The island was stunning and the ocean a blue that seemed endless.
I enjoyed how the earthquake was not front and center, but a part of Bijou's life. She wasn't this tragic young girl heroine, but just a girl struggling to understand what it is to be fully American. To honor tradition but to also make one's own way in a new land. Wow, I never realized just how scarily strict some Haitian families are. I felt bad for Bijou just wanting to hang out with friends of the same gender; no wonder Alex's attentions just turned everything upside down.
And Bijou had BRAIDS with BEADS. After a slew of "long, silky locks" it was rather nice to read about a heroine with a natural style.
I hated that this book came to an end. I loved the vivid descriptions of a New York seldom seen. I want to find my own Rara Grand Bwa and learn to play drums. Even the food descriptions made my mouth water.
NO, this book was AWESOME! It hit all The Fountain Pen Diva's happy buttons. I realize this is middle grade, but it's not dumbed-down in the least. Not to mention a New York that is realistically diverse.
One of the surest ways to end up in The Fountain Pen Diva's crosshairs? Write about a cosmopolitan city like New York and whitewash the entire cast.
Once again I have to thank the awesome Libertad for knowing just what The Fountain Pen Diva needed after so much recent and depressing IR fail. Firstly, this book was all kinds of sweet and cute. Alex, Bijou and their diverse friends are people I wish I'd known back in junior high school. And yes, while Alex is total jailbait lol, he's become another of my favourite fictional boyfriends. I loved how adork-able he was; trying to be smooth and sometimes making a mess of it. I adored how he saw Bijou and that was all they wrote. No hand-wringing, no angst (save how to get to know the object of his affections better).
I've been to Haiti. A long time ago when it was still on the cruise ship itinerary. Yes, there were poor people (name me somewhere on this planet that doesn't have poverty of some sort). There were also beautiful homes, and everyone I met was gracious. The island was stunning and the ocean a blue that seemed endless.
I enjoyed how the earthquake was not front and center, but a part of Bijou's life. She wasn't this tragic young girl heroine, but just a girl struggling to understand what it is to be fully American. To honor tradition but to also make one's own way in a new land. Wow, I never realized just how scarily strict some Haitian families are. I felt bad for Bijou just wanting to hang out with friends of the same gender; no wonder Alex's attentions just turned everything upside down.
And Bijou had BRAIDS with BEADS. After a slew of "long, silky locks" it was rather nice to read about a heroine with a natural style.
I hated that this book came to an end. I loved the vivid descriptions of a New York seldom seen. I want to find my own Rara Grand Bwa and learn to play drums. Even the food descriptions made my mouth water.
October 31, 2015
Now let us discuss the middle school book. It is, arguably, the most forgotten book of its kind on a library and/or bookstore shelf. The book written for your average everyday denizen of junior high has no place in this world. It is too old for the children's section, seething as it is with budding romance and a general distrust of authority of every stripe. It is also, by the same token, too young for the teen section, feeling far too young for a place where you can encounter sex, drugs, and in general very splattery violence. Yes, the middle school book is an unloved object, doomed to drift between two very different worlds, acting as a bridge with no home. And yet, one has to understand that the middle school book is a necessary creation. It is in middle school that we lose whole swaths of readers. Where the children that are more than happy to plunk down with a book at the end of the day find themselves in the throes of a hormonal change without a literature to serve them in their hour of need. So it is with mixed feelings that I approach A Song for Bijou by Josh Farrar. At once familiar and unexpected, Farrar's pseudo-Romeo and Juliet styled romance set in contemporary Flatbush and Ditmas Park may have some difficulty locating its audience at first, but those that go in for the ride will find themselves rewarded a hundred times over. What a great little book.
Cue the soundtrack, the stars, the explosions, and the confetti. When Alex Shrader lays eyes on Bijou Doucet, it couldn't be called anything but love at first sight. A kid who normally just bumbles his way through his day, Alex is suddenly thrilled with the prospect of finding out more about his sudden crush, and with a bit of research he has some answers. Bijou Doucet: Relatively new transfer from Haiti to St. Cat's (the sister school to his own St. Chris) and mystery woman. Alex doesn't know anything about her family (or her culture for that matter) but he is determined to learn more. Bijou, meanwhile, at first wants nothing to do with the strange but sweet boy that looks at her like she's the sun, the moon, and the stars. In her family boys and girls don't date or even hang out, but there's something about this guy's dogged persistence she begins to take to. Told in alternating points of view, Farrar dives into first crush situation where success seems utterly impossible, but maybe worth fighting for just the same.
I've been sitting here, writing this review, wracking my brain to come up with other examples of middle school literature where a boy dedicates himself to a crush as thoroughly as Alex does in this particular book. I know that they're out there. I accept that they exist. Yet more often than not, a book containing a storyline where a boy crushes on a girl usually makes that fact secondary to the overall plot. It's not usually in the forefront of the action itself. Alex, however, is the kind of guy you believe in. In fact, Farrar has his character down cold. It takes a little more effort on his part to render Bijou as warmly, particularly since the beginning of the book is marked pointedly with her indifference. Fortunately you come around to her, just as you come around to their core group of friends.
Now there's a lot of talk these days about the Common Core standards by which our kids will soon be taught. As a result, I'm always on a lookout for books that not only work in details from a variety of different cultures, but have the depth and research to pull it all off. In this particular novel, Farrar sets much of his action in Flatbush, a diverse area of Brooklyn where a large and thriving Haitian community exists. It's not a part of the world where we see many books for kids set. In his Author's Note, Farrar explains that after watching the 2007 documentary The Other Side of the Water: The Journey of a Haitian Rara Band in Brooklyn, he was inspired years later (and after the Haitian earthquake) to take a devastating event far away and ground it in a place already near and dear to his heart. A white author, Farrar says that while writing Alex's part came relatively easily, to ground Bijou's story in something better than mere guesswork he spoke at length with Haitian and Haitian American women, attended second language classes for Haitian students, and learned some hand-drumming techniques with musicians in Prospect Park. Every book written for children by authors about kids from another culture is subjected to a certain level of scrutiny on the part of reviewers like myself. Name whatever standards you like, though, and you'll find that Mr. Farrar's book passes the litmus test for great writing with flying colors.
I was also pleased that the book gave a certain level of depth and weight to the decisions and personality of Bijou's Tonton Pierre. It would have been the easiest thing in the world to render Bijou's hard-nosed rule-obsessed and ultimately (perhaps secretly) frightened uncle a parody of himself. However, he wears his heart on his sleeve, and while most child readers won't spend more than a second of thought on him beyond the page, Bijou's brother Jou Jou may allow a couple of them the chance to appreciate that this guy has a heart somewhere. It just happens to be buried in the thick of his misplaced intentions. Tonton Pierre is a real guy to the reader. That's more than can necessarily be said for the bullies in Alex's school. They occasionally show hints of interesting meanness, but generally speaking they're just your standard brainless baddies. Foils for the action, if you will. And after Tonton Pierre you expect more.
The fact of the matter, and this is not giving anything away, is that there are no easy answers to Alex's predicament. I say "Alex" specifically because I get the sense in this book that while Bijou is vaguely interested in this sweet gawky guy, his particular feelings are the crux of the novel itself. As such, I was mighty relieved that while his solution at the end of this story may bring him (and perhaps even Bijou) a certain level of inner peace, it's not really going to change much of anything. It makes for a great capper on the story, but since we're dealing with middle schoolers here, neither kid is going to suddenly go crazy and break the rules of family and society.
I call this book "middle school" but aside from the first crush storyline and the oblique reference to "getting some" (its innocent speaker is referring to kissing alone, so that's pretty indicative right there) there's nothing here that couldn't be found in any middle grade novel. Ultimately I decided the children's section was the best place to put A Song for Bijou, a decision I've not regretted one iota. Presenting a story that's been told in different versions before, but never with this particular setting, Farrar ends up making something ultimately pretty original in spite of its traditional background. A fine, fair little novel that will hopefully find its audience someday.
For ages 10 and up.
Cue the soundtrack, the stars, the explosions, and the confetti. When Alex Shrader lays eyes on Bijou Doucet, it couldn't be called anything but love at first sight. A kid who normally just bumbles his way through his day, Alex is suddenly thrilled with the prospect of finding out more about his sudden crush, and with a bit of research he has some answers. Bijou Doucet: Relatively new transfer from Haiti to St. Cat's (the sister school to his own St. Chris) and mystery woman. Alex doesn't know anything about her family (or her culture for that matter) but he is determined to learn more. Bijou, meanwhile, at first wants nothing to do with the strange but sweet boy that looks at her like she's the sun, the moon, and the stars. In her family boys and girls don't date or even hang out, but there's something about this guy's dogged persistence she begins to take to. Told in alternating points of view, Farrar dives into first crush situation where success seems utterly impossible, but maybe worth fighting for just the same.
I've been sitting here, writing this review, wracking my brain to come up with other examples of middle school literature where a boy dedicates himself to a crush as thoroughly as Alex does in this particular book. I know that they're out there. I accept that they exist. Yet more often than not, a book containing a storyline where a boy crushes on a girl usually makes that fact secondary to the overall plot. It's not usually in the forefront of the action itself. Alex, however, is the kind of guy you believe in. In fact, Farrar has his character down cold. It takes a little more effort on his part to render Bijou as warmly, particularly since the beginning of the book is marked pointedly with her indifference. Fortunately you come around to her, just as you come around to their core group of friends.
Now there's a lot of talk these days about the Common Core standards by which our kids will soon be taught. As a result, I'm always on a lookout for books that not only work in details from a variety of different cultures, but have the depth and research to pull it all off. In this particular novel, Farrar sets much of his action in Flatbush, a diverse area of Brooklyn where a large and thriving Haitian community exists. It's not a part of the world where we see many books for kids set. In his Author's Note, Farrar explains that after watching the 2007 documentary The Other Side of the Water: The Journey of a Haitian Rara Band in Brooklyn, he was inspired years later (and after the Haitian earthquake) to take a devastating event far away and ground it in a place already near and dear to his heart. A white author, Farrar says that while writing Alex's part came relatively easily, to ground Bijou's story in something better than mere guesswork he spoke at length with Haitian and Haitian American women, attended second language classes for Haitian students, and learned some hand-drumming techniques with musicians in Prospect Park. Every book written for children by authors about kids from another culture is subjected to a certain level of scrutiny on the part of reviewers like myself. Name whatever standards you like, though, and you'll find that Mr. Farrar's book passes the litmus test for great writing with flying colors.
I was also pleased that the book gave a certain level of depth and weight to the decisions and personality of Bijou's Tonton Pierre. It would have been the easiest thing in the world to render Bijou's hard-nosed rule-obsessed and ultimately (perhaps secretly) frightened uncle a parody of himself. However, he wears his heart on his sleeve, and while most child readers won't spend more than a second of thought on him beyond the page, Bijou's brother Jou Jou may allow a couple of them the chance to appreciate that this guy has a heart somewhere. It just happens to be buried in the thick of his misplaced intentions. Tonton Pierre is a real guy to the reader. That's more than can necessarily be said for the bullies in Alex's school. They occasionally show hints of interesting meanness, but generally speaking they're just your standard brainless baddies. Foils for the action, if you will. And after Tonton Pierre you expect more.
The fact of the matter, and this is not giving anything away, is that there are no easy answers to Alex's predicament. I say "Alex" specifically because I get the sense in this book that while Bijou is vaguely interested in this sweet gawky guy, his particular feelings are the crux of the novel itself. As such, I was mighty relieved that while his solution at the end of this story may bring him (and perhaps even Bijou) a certain level of inner peace, it's not really going to change much of anything. It makes for a great capper on the story, but since we're dealing with middle schoolers here, neither kid is going to suddenly go crazy and break the rules of family and society.
I call this book "middle school" but aside from the first crush storyline and the oblique reference to "getting some" (its innocent speaker is referring to kissing alone, so that's pretty indicative right there) there's nothing here that couldn't be found in any middle grade novel. Ultimately I decided the children's section was the best place to put A Song for Bijou, a decision I've not regretted one iota. Presenting a story that's been told in different versions before, but never with this particular setting, Farrar ends up making something ultimately pretty original in spite of its traditional background. A fine, fair little novel that will hopefully find its audience someday.
For ages 10 and up.
October 15, 2013
I enjoyed a lot of things about this book. The characters are interesting and unique. The plot was different than I've read before in a lot of ways. But there were a couple of things that irritated me as well. I'll start with the good stuff.
Strengths: Alex and Bijou are great characters. Alex is shy but fascinated by girls and when he sees Bijou he falls in like immediately. The rest of the book follows Alex and Bijou as a relationship begins to form and Alex tries to convince Bijou to be his friend (girlfriend). Both characters come across as believable and likable. The secondary characters are great too, Alex's friends, Ira and Nomuro, Bijou's friends, brother and aunt and uncle, all come across as real people.
The plot is an interesting one as Alex and Bijou have more than the normal boy/girl stuff to contend with. Bijou has recently come from Haiti where she lived through the massive earthquake of 2010 and it has left it's mark on her. In addition, Haitian culture is very different than American culture when it comes to boy/girl relationships and Bijou is not supposed to have anything to do with boys, so both she and Alex lie to further their friendship. I appreciated that this came back to bite both of them in the end. The boy/girl and friend interactions felt quite real and authentic. I really enjoyed the taste of Haitian culture and the inclusion of Haitian music and dance in the story, it added real flavor. It was great to see a cross-cultural relationship develop along with the tensions involved.
Weaknesses: Is the profanity really necessary? I know a lot of people speak that way, but I prefer not to read it and a lot of the kids I work with do to. In addition, am I the only one who finds twelve too young for kissing? Maybe I'm just weird that way. Sigh. I also got really irritated that the bullies who sabotage Alex and Bijou's relationship get away with it and Alex and Ira use 'blackmail' to get the boys to back off. I think this is just a personal pet peeve though.
Overall, an enjoyable and informative read full of life and culture and fun. I ended up really liking both Alex and Bijou, despite their sometimes poor choices.
Strengths: Alex and Bijou are great characters. Alex is shy but fascinated by girls and when he sees Bijou he falls in like immediately. The rest of the book follows Alex and Bijou as a relationship begins to form and Alex tries to convince Bijou to be his friend (girlfriend). Both characters come across as believable and likable. The secondary characters are great too, Alex's friends, Ira and Nomuro, Bijou's friends, brother and aunt and uncle, all come across as real people.
The plot is an interesting one as Alex and Bijou have more than the normal boy/girl stuff to contend with. Bijou has recently come from Haiti where she lived through the massive earthquake of 2010 and it has left it's mark on her. In addition, Haitian culture is very different than American culture when it comes to boy/girl relationships and Bijou is not supposed to have anything to do with boys, so both she and Alex lie to further their friendship. I appreciated that this came back to bite both of them in the end. The boy/girl and friend interactions felt quite real and authentic. I really enjoyed the taste of Haitian culture and the inclusion of Haitian music and dance in the story, it added real flavor. It was great to see a cross-cultural relationship develop along with the tensions involved.
Weaknesses: Is the profanity really necessary? I know a lot of people speak that way, but I prefer not to read it and a lot of the kids I work with do to. In addition, am I the only one who finds twelve too young for kissing? Maybe I'm just weird that way. Sigh. I also got really irritated that the bullies who sabotage Alex and Bijou's relationship get away with it and Alex and Ira use 'blackmail' to get the boys to back off. I think this is just a personal pet peeve though.
Overall, an enjoyable and informative read full of life and culture and fun. I ended up really liking both Alex and Bijou, despite their sometimes poor choices.
May 7, 2025
”I feel different, as in like the person I was before but bigger and better. I feel like, and I don’t mean this to sound strange, but I feel like I was meant to know you, that somehow you were going to be a part of my life. Don’t ask me how, but I knew it.”
A sweet, utterly charming tale of first love and learning to find your way in two very different worlds.
Review coming soon!!!
A sweet, utterly charming tale of first love and learning to find your way in two very different worlds.
Review coming soon!!!
July 24, 2014
Alex Shrader is in the seventh grade, not on the quest to look for love. The odds are against him, he goes to an all boys school, nagging mother and annoying sister who teases him about every little thing. Alex is your typical teenager that has friends around him that he questions if he is in the right crowd, while they are trying to fit in with the popular crowd, he has grown accustomed to living an ordinary and boring life. Girls are not even even his priority, that is until he meets Bijou a girl that can possibly change his outlook on romance and culture itself.
Bijou was raised in a very traditional and strict home. Chaperoned whatever she goes, it is difficult for her to find freedom in places she adores. Although she respects her family core values, she wishes that they can restrain from being so haughty to other people that are not the same. Raised in a Haitian culture, she was taught the meaning of respect and to set boundaries to the the opposite sex. However things are about to change for the better when she meets Alex, whose race and appearance is existing and nerve wrecking at the same time. Exchanging notes through a mediator,Alex and Bijoe learn more about each other language and lifestyle. Additionally they are determined to overcome the odds that are against him and make sure that their commitment towards each other remains.
An edited leaked video on youtube causes Bijoe to question everything she thought she knew about Alex. Proving his innocence to her is going to take time and effort, but Alex will stop at nothing trying to explain to Bijoe that he is the same guy that she fall for. Tensions collide in this very sweet romance between two different people that fall for each other from different worlds.
Normally I don't care much for beautiful covers but this was one hard to resist. Ah come on how romantic was the book cover? Okay maybe I am a hopeless masculine guy but honestly the book cover pulled me in initially. As far as the content of the story, it was very cute and subtle with romance parts, it reminded me a lot of high school. Alex and Bijou were people I knew in life, huge plus that the author added the cultural aspect to their relationship.
Looking forward to reading more novels by Farrar, talented writer.
Bijou was raised in a very traditional and strict home. Chaperoned whatever she goes, it is difficult for her to find freedom in places she adores. Although she respects her family core values, she wishes that they can restrain from being so haughty to other people that are not the same. Raised in a Haitian culture, she was taught the meaning of respect and to set boundaries to the the opposite sex. However things are about to change for the better when she meets Alex, whose race and appearance is existing and nerve wrecking at the same time. Exchanging notes through a mediator,Alex and Bijoe learn more about each other language and lifestyle. Additionally they are determined to overcome the odds that are against him and make sure that their commitment towards each other remains.
An edited leaked video on youtube causes Bijoe to question everything she thought she knew about Alex. Proving his innocence to her is going to take time and effort, but Alex will stop at nothing trying to explain to Bijoe that he is the same guy that she fall for. Tensions collide in this very sweet romance between two different people that fall for each other from different worlds.
Normally I don't care much for beautiful covers but this was one hard to resist. Ah come on how romantic was the book cover? Okay maybe I am a hopeless masculine guy but honestly the book cover pulled me in initially. As far as the content of the story, it was very cute and subtle with romance parts, it reminded me a lot of high school. Alex and Bijou were people I knew in life, huge plus that the author added the cultural aspect to their relationship.
Looking forward to reading more novels by Farrar, talented writer.
March 10, 2016
Completely and totally adorable, realistic...I could just go on. I did notice that the way these kids acted was more at a high school level if you ask me, but nevertheless, I've found a new favourite book :)
February 5, 2013
Originally posted at Random Musings of aBibliophile.
I found A Song for Bijou by Josh Farrar one day on NetGalley and was immediately intrigued. I had not heard about it prior to that and after reading the synopsis I knew I had to read it. A contemporary book about a Brooklyn boy who falls for a newly arrived Haitian immigrant? We don't get many of those and I am happy to say that it is a good one.
There are so many books that focus on boy-crazy girls. We don't get nearly enough that focus on girl-crazy boys. And those boys are out there. Oh believe me are they ever. Alex sounds like a few of the boys I taught. I loved that. I loved the genuineness of his voice and the interactions with his friends. He is a nice guy but a painfully shy one and the way he deals with this is fun to read. Bijou's character felt slightly more forced, but only slightly. She is more mature in her thinking. She has been through a lot so that is understandable. I found her struggle to maintain who she has always been and at the same time fit into her new world a heart-wrenching one. The rules in her family will seem crazy insane to modern American readers, and she chafes under them as well. Through Bijou and her family we get a picture of the modern immigration struggle of one small community and it is fascinating. The story switches back and forth between Alex and Bijou's points of view. I liked that their names weren't tacked on the beginning of their chapters. They didn't need to be. I knew after only a few words whose point of view it was. Their voices are that distinctive.
The plot focuses on the budding relationship between Alex and Bijou as he tries (sometimes disastrously) to get to know her and she slowly lets him. Everything about the two of them is spot on middle school crush. It's perfect. As a result of this Alex, and with him the reader, get a fascinating window onto Haitian-American culture. The setting is so well rendered I felt like I was actually there. I was a little disappointed in some of the plot developments toward the end and felt that the drama there was unnecessary and detracted from what is otherwise a wonderfully written and engaging story. I'm pretty sure the target audience will love it though, and that's what matters. This is a book that will appeal to many students in grades 5-8.
I read a copy of A Song for Bijou from the publisher via NetGalley. It will be available for purchase on February 12.
I found A Song for Bijou by Josh Farrar one day on NetGalley and was immediately intrigued. I had not heard about it prior to that and after reading the synopsis I knew I had to read it. A contemporary book about a Brooklyn boy who falls for a newly arrived Haitian immigrant? We don't get many of those and I am happy to say that it is a good one.
There are so many books that focus on boy-crazy girls. We don't get nearly enough that focus on girl-crazy boys. And those boys are out there. Oh believe me are they ever. Alex sounds like a few of the boys I taught. I loved that. I loved the genuineness of his voice and the interactions with his friends. He is a nice guy but a painfully shy one and the way he deals with this is fun to read. Bijou's character felt slightly more forced, but only slightly. She is more mature in her thinking. She has been through a lot so that is understandable. I found her struggle to maintain who she has always been and at the same time fit into her new world a heart-wrenching one. The rules in her family will seem crazy insane to modern American readers, and she chafes under them as well. Through Bijou and her family we get a picture of the modern immigration struggle of one small community and it is fascinating. The story switches back and forth between Alex and Bijou's points of view. I liked that their names weren't tacked on the beginning of their chapters. They didn't need to be. I knew after only a few words whose point of view it was. Their voices are that distinctive.
The plot focuses on the budding relationship between Alex and Bijou as he tries (sometimes disastrously) to get to know her and she slowly lets him. Everything about the two of them is spot on middle school crush. It's perfect. As a result of this Alex, and with him the reader, get a fascinating window onto Haitian-American culture. The setting is so well rendered I felt like I was actually there. I was a little disappointed in some of the plot developments toward the end and felt that the drama there was unnecessary and detracted from what is otherwise a wonderfully written and engaging story. I'm pretty sure the target audience will love it though, and that's what matters. This is a book that will appeal to many students in grades 5-8.
I read a copy of A Song for Bijou from the publisher via NetGalley. It will be available for purchase on February 12.
January 12, 2014
This has to be one of the best YA books I have read. It just so, don’t want to use the word, “cute”, but it is. Alex Shredder attends St. Christopher all boys school. Like he says, “Honestly, what is the point of a boys-only school in the twenty-first century?” “Imagine looking at the same boring faces, day after day, for eight whole years. With the exception of Nomura and Ira, if I never saw a single one of my classmates’ ugly mugs again, I would die happy.” His best friends Nomura and Ira, are unique. Ira is obsessed with something all of the time. First Pokémon cards, Diary of a Wimpy kid and now vampires, zombies, werewolves and something I just learned about, “were-panthers,” it comes from the True Blood series on HBO.
I don’t have a TV, so I did not know what it was until I Google it and found it associated with the TV show, True Blood. So kick me. I’m not into TV. His other best friend, Nomura, reads the New York Times every morning while drinking a cup of black coffee. According to Alex, “the kid is never more than ten feet away from the Times.” Man, imagine his parents.
When Alex first sees Bijou, “the slow-motion thing happens. It’s like the pause button’s been pushed on everything.” Isn't that line soooooo cute!!! He starts a serious search to find out who she is, as awkwardly as any 7th grade boy can, and begins to learn about Haiti, which is where Bijou is from.
Bijou is from Haiti and was sent to America to her Aunt and Uncle after the earthquake. Her Uncle, who has lived in America for years, has Bijou on a very strict regimen. School, food shopping and church only. She is also not interested in having a boyfriend.
When they finally meet at the school dance, Alex speaks French to her. Can you believe it. He did not like being forced to learn French, now glad he did. Some of it is wrong, but isn’t that the cutest thing.
I would like to recommend that you watch ever thing you do in this world. The amount of videos taken by one kid, Ira, was too funny and just a bit too personal and some kids got hur. What a world we live in now. I can’t say much, there’s a few out there on YouTube of me in some sticky situations.
Through some crazy and unforgivable videos, secrets revealed, backstabbing middle school antics, Alex has to win back the friendship of Bijou. After all she has gone through with the Haiti earthquake and it's aftermath, it’s going to take another major earthquake to get her back and Alex does.
I don’t have a TV, so I did not know what it was until I Google it and found it associated with the TV show, True Blood. So kick me. I’m not into TV. His other best friend, Nomura, reads the New York Times every morning while drinking a cup of black coffee. According to Alex, “the kid is never more than ten feet away from the Times.” Man, imagine his parents.
When Alex first sees Bijou, “the slow-motion thing happens. It’s like the pause button’s been pushed on everything.” Isn't that line soooooo cute!!! He starts a serious search to find out who she is, as awkwardly as any 7th grade boy can, and begins to learn about Haiti, which is where Bijou is from.
Bijou is from Haiti and was sent to America to her Aunt and Uncle after the earthquake. Her Uncle, who has lived in America for years, has Bijou on a very strict regimen. School, food shopping and church only. She is also not interested in having a boyfriend.
When they finally meet at the school dance, Alex speaks French to her. Can you believe it. He did not like being forced to learn French, now glad he did. Some of it is wrong, but isn’t that the cutest thing.
I would like to recommend that you watch ever thing you do in this world. The amount of videos taken by one kid, Ira, was too funny and just a bit too personal and some kids got hur. What a world we live in now. I can’t say much, there’s a few out there on YouTube of me in some sticky situations.
Through some crazy and unforgivable videos, secrets revealed, backstabbing middle school antics, Alex has to win back the friendship of Bijou. After all she has gone through with the Haiti earthquake and it's aftermath, it’s going to take another major earthquake to get her back and Alex does.
October 21, 2016
Really great MG book
When I began reading this book, I didn't know what to expect but from the first paragraph, the writer has made me smirk and giggle like a schoolgirl watching the scene unfold before me. I'm just hooked in the world of the main character and love the fact that NYC is portrayed as the melting pot that it is because representation matters.
With that being said, I purposefully read fiction that has a cast of main characters who are multicultural and with varying ethnicities. This book was recommended to me by a person I admire and hasn't steered me wrong yet. I knew I had to give it a shot when the main love interest is revealed as Haitian, as I am Haitian as well. It's actually very rare for me to see other characters who are Haitian in romance novels whether it's MG, YA, or IR.
I must admit that I doubted the author would be able to accurately portray the life of a Haitian girl. Bijou is from my hometown and describes in detail exactly how it is for a young girl growing up in Haiti. Most families are super strict, not allowing their daughters anywhere without family member serving as a chaperone. I loved the smattering of French in their initial meeting and throughout the book. I was slightly disappointed that there weren't more Kreyol words used besides Tonton. I loved the use of rara and showing our music and voudou in a respectful light.
The only cons that I feel this book had was that I don't feel that the villains of the book actually got what they deserved. None of them really had any repercussions for their actions even though Alex had the key to make them pay for the turmoil they caused his friends and him. I also felt like the book ended incredibly abruptly. There's so much more the author could have delved in with regards to the discord between Jenna and Bijou, especially considering the fact that Jenna is from the Dominican Republic.
I loved the fact that Bijou was bourgeois. I do wish that she were more of an extrovert and put people in their place with all the ignorant comments they made but I kept telling myself that it wasn't her place to teach people her culture. There's a thing called Google if they really wanted to learn.
I really love this book because it's great to see someone who could be me or my female relative in book form. I wish the author would write a sequel to this book as I want to know what the characters have been up to. I still have to so many questions left unanswered! But a good book will do that to you. I would highly recommend this to others to read.
When I began reading this book, I didn't know what to expect but from the first paragraph, the writer has made me smirk and giggle like a schoolgirl watching the scene unfold before me. I'm just hooked in the world of the main character and love the fact that NYC is portrayed as the melting pot that it is because representation matters.
With that being said, I purposefully read fiction that has a cast of main characters who are multicultural and with varying ethnicities. This book was recommended to me by a person I admire and hasn't steered me wrong yet. I knew I had to give it a shot when the main love interest is revealed as Haitian, as I am Haitian as well. It's actually very rare for me to see other characters who are Haitian in romance novels whether it's MG, YA, or IR.
I must admit that I doubted the author would be able to accurately portray the life of a Haitian girl. Bijou is from my hometown and describes in detail exactly how it is for a young girl growing up in Haiti. Most families are super strict, not allowing their daughters anywhere without family member serving as a chaperone. I loved the smattering of French in their initial meeting and throughout the book. I was slightly disappointed that there weren't more Kreyol words used besides Tonton. I loved the use of rara and showing our music and voudou in a respectful light.
The only cons that I feel this book had was that I don't feel that the villains of the book actually got what they deserved. None of them really had any repercussions for their actions even though Alex had the key to make them pay for the turmoil they caused his friends and him. I also felt like the book ended incredibly abruptly. There's so much more the author could have delved in with regards to the discord between Jenna and Bijou, especially considering the fact that Jenna is from the Dominican Republic.
I loved the fact that Bijou was bourgeois. I do wish that she were more of an extrovert and put people in their place with all the ignorant comments they made but I kept telling myself that it wasn't her place to teach people her culture. There's a thing called Google if they really wanted to learn.
I really love this book because it's great to see someone who could be me or my female relative in book form. I wish the author would write a sequel to this book as I want to know what the characters have been up to. I still have to so many questions left unanswered! But a good book will do that to you. I would highly recommend this to others to read.
January 21, 2013
Note: ARC received from NetGalley
This tween romance between Alex and Bijou was adorable. Alex is your average American boy, and he goes to an all-boys prep school. Bijou is from Haiti but moved to the States after the earthquake to live with her aunt and uncle. She is a new student at an all-girls school that is the sister school to Alex’s. The first time Alex sees Bijou, he knows he wants to get to know her. Throughout the book he has to work around her strict uncle and learn about Haitian culture to win Bijou’s heart. The book is told in alternating narratives of Alex and Bijou.
I really liked both Alex and Bijou. They were thoughtful and sweet, and they seemed realistic to me. However, many of the side characters weren’t as well fleshed out and felt flat and cliché (particularly the bullies). Mostly, I was able to look over that since I liked the two main characters so much. Also, I loved the character of Alex’s older brother, Jou Jou. I wish there was a book for an older audience all about him!
My favorite thing about this book is that it is an interracial, cross-cultural romance… for tweens! I rarely see interracial romances in books for any age, and I think having one for this age range is wonderful. Also, the Haitian culture throughout the book is really interesting, especially the drumming. Overall, a really fun, sweet read.
This tween romance between Alex and Bijou was adorable. Alex is your average American boy, and he goes to an all-boys prep school. Bijou is from Haiti but moved to the States after the earthquake to live with her aunt and uncle. She is a new student at an all-girls school that is the sister school to Alex’s. The first time Alex sees Bijou, he knows he wants to get to know her. Throughout the book he has to work around her strict uncle and learn about Haitian culture to win Bijou’s heart. The book is told in alternating narratives of Alex and Bijou.
I really liked both Alex and Bijou. They were thoughtful and sweet, and they seemed realistic to me. However, many of the side characters weren’t as well fleshed out and felt flat and cliché (particularly the bullies). Mostly, I was able to look over that since I liked the two main characters so much. Also, I loved the character of Alex’s older brother, Jou Jou. I wish there was a book for an older audience all about him!
My favorite thing about this book is that it is an interracial, cross-cultural romance… for tweens! I rarely see interracial romances in books for any age, and I think having one for this age range is wonderful. Also, the Haitian culture throughout the book is really interesting, especially the drumming. Overall, a really fun, sweet read.
November 4, 2014
Alex hasn't really ever cared about girls. Up until now. He sees a girl and the "slow-motion thing" happens and he has a crush on Bijou Doucet, a Haitian girl. Bijou doesn't want a boyfriend and anything to do with boys- in her own mind and her family forbids her to. When Alex tries to get Bijou's attention, the perfect moment comes- one of the few dances that involve both schools. Alex touches Bijou's heart, but he doesn't know what Bijou has been through. When he breaks her heart, can she forgive him...?
I liked this book. I think it's a good book, but it's not completely my style. I recommend this book to anyone who likes shorter story line with a lot jumps and stories that do the opposite of what you think might happen. This is a middle school love story involving secret movie-visits and planning. If this was part of a series, I wouldn't want to read the rest because I don't think that this is my style of series. I think the strengths in this book are that Farrar is good at describing what Alex or Bijou is thinking, from the point of view of a boy or girl and that the description of their surroundings are very detailed. I think that this needs some work on describing what the characters do, feel and act to one another at certain moments. Overall, I think this is a good book.
I liked this book. I think it's a good book, but it's not completely my style. I recommend this book to anyone who likes shorter story line with a lot jumps and stories that do the opposite of what you think might happen. This is a middle school love story involving secret movie-visits and planning. If this was part of a series, I wouldn't want to read the rest because I don't think that this is my style of series. I think the strengths in this book are that Farrar is good at describing what Alex or Bijou is thinking, from the point of view of a boy or girl and that the description of their surroundings are very detailed. I think that this needs some work on describing what the characters do, feel and act to one another at certain moments. Overall, I think this is a good book.
August 4, 2018
I love this book! I hardly ever find books with a mix of Caribbean and American culture.
I connected immediately with this book. I remember when I first arrived in NYC from a Carribean country, thinking "the American movies is nothing like real life". Lol. Like Bijou, I had a hard time fitting in school. Unlike her, when I came to this country I had just started 10th grade and let me tell you, high school kids are mean. The American culture and custom were different. But thanks to amazing friends (some Americans) that took the time to know me, I'd say I was lucky.
Josh Farrar has done an exceptional job portraying the struggle and hardship of Caribbean kids making America their new home.
I connected immediately with this book. I remember when I first arrived in NYC from a Carribean country, thinking "the American movies is nothing like real life". Lol. Like Bijou, I had a hard time fitting in school. Unlike her, when I came to this country I had just started 10th grade and let me tell you, high school kids are mean. The American culture and custom were different. But thanks to amazing friends (some Americans) that took the time to know me, I'd say I was lucky.
Josh Farrar has done an exceptional job portraying the struggle and hardship of Caribbean kids making America their new home.
September 15, 2013
Bummer...I had high hopes for this one, especially since I saw it was being read for Capital Choices. This book was really boring and slow and the characters were flat with little personality. I can't see alot of kids enjoying this book, almost seems like it was written with adults in mind, even though it's a kids book.
June 19, 2021
A rare middle-grade romance that feels like it’s “for boys” (by which I mean stereotypical male readers), this is extremely sweet and thoughtful and charming. I’m sure Josh Farrar’s own experience is very close to his male lead, Alex, but he clearly put a lot of effort into making Bijou’s Haitian family feel genuine as well.
February 4, 2023
alex was so overdramatic and bijou was a brat
i feel like the storyline was so kiddish but maybe its meant for a younger age catagory
i feel like the storyline was so kiddish but maybe its meant for a younger age catagory
December 29, 2017
It’s been a week since the phone call, and I’m thinking of Bijou a little less each day.
That’s a total lie; it’s the exact opposite. It’s actually getting worse.
This book reminded me a lot of John Green’s earlier books—the likes of Paper Towns and Looking for Alaska—where the self-proclaimed “nerd” falls for the “most beautiful girl he has ever seen”, and has best friends who he refers to by nicknames, and talks like no real person at that age will talk like, and tries to show off his (the character’s and the author’s alike) intelligence any chance he gets. Don’t get me wrong, though, it’s a sweet book. And Looking for Alaska has a soft spot in my heart, so anything that reminds me of it is nice.
But that’s just it. Sweet. Nice. This book was just okay for me. I tried reading this book three times. Twice I started and barely got to page 50 (first in June, then in July) before I quickly lost interest and got distracted by other things—movies, games, anime, fanfiction—the lot of it, except this book. I guess the main reason why this happened was because—even that early on—I didn’t see any point of this book. Just like the games that I get tired of very quickly and swiftly uninstall, I saw no meaning to this book.
“Alex, life is a race, and you’re so far behind, you think you’re in first place.”
What this book lacked that John Green’s spectacularly have is the philosophical value. In John Green’s, it was never just about this boy falling in love with this girl. He uses characters and plot as tools to express his way of thinking, moulding them so that he could sprinkle in life lessons, morality, theories and existentialism. In Farrar’s book, it was... just a boy and a girl. The boy trying to get her to be his. On and on the pages went, and it was still the same. I didn’t see the point of it at all.
I look back at the boys once. They’re as frozen as sculptures. Nomura very serious, Ira looking up at the sky with his mouth wide open, and Alex looking after us with puppy eyes as if his life were crumbling all around him. If only he could see himself. So much drama, and just over a couple of girls!
Luckily, yes, this did change. But, belatedly, I think, at least for me. I keep feeling like this book was trying to do too many things at once, and not doing any of them good enough. A Jack of many trades but master of none. It tried to be a love story. It tried to expose cultural barriers. It tried to address bullying and peer pressure. It tried to portray the aftermath of devastating natural disasters. It has so many things to tell, all at once, and it stumbles over its own words to get them all out in one single storyline.
The writing, though, is certainly commendable. Mentioning that it is reminiscent of John Green's is a high compliment, in my book. The fourth star that I gave is largely due to that very fact. Farrar knows how to distinguish character voices. We know who is saying this particular dialogue from how the words are structured. Even better, Farrar is adept at showing various cultures and identities without coming off as insensitive or ignorant. Right from the start, I got excited to see the many different races of characters we had, with just the first chapter! American, Japanese, Chinese, Haitian, Dominican, it’s all in there, and that was refreshing.
But this is another thing about Americans I have noticed: they want to think everyone around them is so happy, living in harmony. They choose not to see the walls that separate people from each other, these walls that exist everywhere one cares to look.
We can see, even without having Farrar explain himself in the author’s note, that he had conducted extensive research to be as loyal and respectful to each and every culture he had tried to portray. For this, he deserves all the kudos.
All in all, this is a sweet and cute read that got much better as it neared the end. I actually laughed aloud and shed a few teardrops there. I just wished that it was a master in everything it’d tried to accomplish, instead of being just an almost.
“Maybe I will tell you someday. But for now, just know this: to see people die, it changes you. Certain things that seem small, like the look on your mother’s face when she greets you in the morning, or the taste of a cup of tea, become much more important. And the things you thought you cared about, some of them do not matter at all.”
December 28, 2016
This review also appears on my blog, Read-at-Home Mom.
Bijou Doucet, a survivor of the earthquake in Haiti in 2010, has just moved in with her aunt and uncle in Brooklyn, where she attends an all-girls school. Though Bijou is not permitted to date or even to socialize out of school, she manages to attract the attention of Alex Schrader, one of the students at the nearby all-boys school. Alex is pretty clueless about girls, but he is sweet, and before long, Bijou, too, wants to spend time with him, even if it is forbidden. Through their sweet and innocent first romance, Alex and Bijou overcome the pain of Bijou's past, the restrictive rules of her aunt and uncle, and the intolerance of their classmates.
I was drawn to this book on NetGalley for two superficial reasons: the poetic sounding title, and the cover illustration by Erin McGuire. I guessed instantly based on those two things that this would be a cute middle grade romance. What I didn't guess - and what truly makes this book special - is how many other story lines figure into that romance. This isn't just a love story, but a story about cultural differences, empathy, acceptance, and forgiveness. Because the narrative alternates between Bijou's voice and Alex's voice, the story is well-balanced and presents the challenges of both characters. Even when the characters misunderstand each other and fail to communicate, the reader remains sympathetic to both sides of the story and continues to root for the success of their relationship.
In addition to the well-realized main characters, this book is also populated by many wonderful supporting characters. Alex has two best friends, the actions of whom figure heavily into some of the mistakes he makes in trying to get to know Bijou. Bijou has an older brother who has moved out of his aunt and uncle's house and who teaches Alex to play Haitian rada music and conspires with Bijou to find ways for her to spend time with Alex. Alex and Bijou each also have a set of class bullies who tease them about their relationship and use cyber-bullying to intimidate them. The entire world of this story feels very contemporary, and I could imagine these same situations playing out in the schools in my neighborhood.
This is a great book for readers who enjoyed Same Sun Here. Both books alternate between a boy's point of view and a girl's, and both deal with characters who expand their horizons by learning about each other's cultures. It is also a very boy-friendly romance. Though Bijou is a significant part of the story, most of the romance comes through in Alex's narration. I'm not 100% sure the cover will attract male readers, but Alex's voice is so authentic, middle school boys - especially those who are already fond of reading - would easily get hooked once they started reading.
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. I look forward to reading more from Josh Farrar, and I plan to read his other middle grade novel, Rules to Rock By, which was published in 2010.
Bijou Doucet, a survivor of the earthquake in Haiti in 2010, has just moved in with her aunt and uncle in Brooklyn, where she attends an all-girls school. Though Bijou is not permitted to date or even to socialize out of school, she manages to attract the attention of Alex Schrader, one of the students at the nearby all-boys school. Alex is pretty clueless about girls, but he is sweet, and before long, Bijou, too, wants to spend time with him, even if it is forbidden. Through their sweet and innocent first romance, Alex and Bijou overcome the pain of Bijou's past, the restrictive rules of her aunt and uncle, and the intolerance of their classmates.
I was drawn to this book on NetGalley for two superficial reasons: the poetic sounding title, and the cover illustration by Erin McGuire. I guessed instantly based on those two things that this would be a cute middle grade romance. What I didn't guess - and what truly makes this book special - is how many other story lines figure into that romance. This isn't just a love story, but a story about cultural differences, empathy, acceptance, and forgiveness. Because the narrative alternates between Bijou's voice and Alex's voice, the story is well-balanced and presents the challenges of both characters. Even when the characters misunderstand each other and fail to communicate, the reader remains sympathetic to both sides of the story and continues to root for the success of their relationship.
In addition to the well-realized main characters, this book is also populated by many wonderful supporting characters. Alex has two best friends, the actions of whom figure heavily into some of the mistakes he makes in trying to get to know Bijou. Bijou has an older brother who has moved out of his aunt and uncle's house and who teaches Alex to play Haitian rada music and conspires with Bijou to find ways for her to spend time with Alex. Alex and Bijou each also have a set of class bullies who tease them about their relationship and use cyber-bullying to intimidate them. The entire world of this story feels very contemporary, and I could imagine these same situations playing out in the schools in my neighborhood.
This is a great book for readers who enjoyed Same Sun Here. Both books alternate between a boy's point of view and a girl's, and both deal with characters who expand their horizons by learning about each other's cultures. It is also a very boy-friendly romance. Though Bijou is a significant part of the story, most of the romance comes through in Alex's narration. I'm not 100% sure the cover will attract male readers, but Alex's voice is so authentic, middle school boys - especially those who are already fond of reading - would easily get hooked once they started reading.
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. I look forward to reading more from Josh Farrar, and I plan to read his other middle grade novel, Rules to Rock By, which was published in 2010.
July 23, 2016
Seventh grader Alex Schrader goes to a boys’ Catholic school in Brooklyn. He’s not exactly at the top of the social heap, but he has a couple of friends. Alex’s buddy Nomura is okay, but their friend Ira is bordering on weird and his video-camera is always at his side and is usually on and recording. Alex is more interested in the new girl he sees one day after school, though. Luckily, Ira’s sister goes to the girls’ school nearby, and Alex is able to find out the new girl’s name -- Bijou-- and hopes to meet her at the school dance coming up. The two schools have a few social events every year, and Alex is doing all the research he can to learn more about this exotic-sounding girl from Haiti. Meanwhile, the two hot shots on campus, Trevor and Rocky, have noticed that Alex is interested in Bijou, and Alex is sure that no good can come of that. To make matters worse Rocky seems to be interested in Bijou too. Little do they know that Bijou’s very conservative family would not even let her choose her own clothes for a school dance much less even go out with a boy. Readers will learn a bit about Haitian culture as they read this narrative that eventually is told in two voices, Alex’s and Bijou’s. Will today’s kids relate to these two as they struggle to even have a phone conversation? Hard to say, but in this world of texting and social media this book will at least cause young readers to consider what it must be like for immigrant kids to try to assimilate in our fast-paced society with fewer restrictions on teens than ever before. @farrarbooks
April 28, 2016
This had potential, and the two main characters were pretty well defined, but I had a few issues with the writing.
Whenever you talk about a coming of age romance staring thirteen year olds, well I go into it expecting something innocently awkward, but cute none the less. But I didn't get that here. The boys in the story were really too focused on getting a girls attention. I mean to the point of it being a little creepy instead of cute. It was more like I would possibly pepper spray some of these guys...
That's not to say that the main character Alex didn't have more depth than that, and I actually did like him as a character. But the story and the people in it were kinda held back I think by this creepy view that was strung along through the whole thing. I just got this vibe that was basically: "Hey girls are hot, and we're desperate for attention!" The main relationship in the story was against that very message though. It was about loving someone on a deeper level, so the two themes were in a bit of conflict for me.
I did like somethings about the story, and they did manage to put in a bit of heart at some points. But as a whole everything felt a little too much like a mindless teen pop song that was playing in the background of an otherwise serious scene. I guess I just wish this story would have added in more class and maturity. It had potential and I hate to see that wasted.
(Bah I can never read romance! lol)
Whenever you talk about a coming of age romance staring thirteen year olds, well I go into it expecting something innocently awkward, but cute none the less. But I didn't get that here. The boys in the story were really too focused on getting a girls attention. I mean to the point of it being a little creepy instead of cute. It was more like I would possibly pepper spray some of these guys...
That's not to say that the main character Alex didn't have more depth than that, and I actually did like him as a character. But the story and the people in it were kinda held back I think by this creepy view that was strung along through the whole thing. I just got this vibe that was basically: "Hey girls are hot, and we're desperate for attention!" The main relationship in the story was against that very message though. It was about loving someone on a deeper level, so the two themes were in a bit of conflict for me.
I did like somethings about the story, and they did manage to put in a bit of heart at some points. But as a whole everything felt a little too much like a mindless teen pop song that was playing in the background of an otherwise serious scene. I guess I just wish this story would have added in more class and maturity. It had potential and I hate to see that wasted.
(Bah I can never read romance! lol)
January 12, 2013
See more of my reviews at Bettering Me Up.
Based on events post-Haitian earthquake, this book brings together Alex -- born and raised in Brooklyn, and Bijou -- recent émigrée who has come to live with her aunt and uncle in NYC. Alex falls head-over-heels in love with Bijou the moment he sees her buying snacks at a convenience store. Happily, he has an "in", since she attends the sister school of his own school. And he just happens to be friends with her friends! Their backgrounds and personal histories make it difficult for them to get to know each other, but they work to overcome the odds.
This was a really cute middle grade novel. Alex is hilarious and I love how he swooned over girls in general and Bijou in particular. He reminds me of my 13-year-old neighbor: sweet, funny, charming, and studious.
Bijou, on the other hand, didn't excite me much and I couldn't figure out why Alex was so enamored with her. She was described as beautiful, which explains the initial attraction, but she wasn't given enough of a personality to make me swoon over their interactions. I much preferred reading about Jou Jou, Bijou's older brother. He was so lively and fun; someone I'd like to hang out with.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Based on events post-Haitian earthquake, this book brings together Alex -- born and raised in Brooklyn, and Bijou -- recent émigrée who has come to live with her aunt and uncle in NYC. Alex falls head-over-heels in love with Bijou the moment he sees her buying snacks at a convenience store. Happily, he has an "in", since she attends the sister school of his own school. And he just happens to be friends with her friends! Their backgrounds and personal histories make it difficult for them to get to know each other, but they work to overcome the odds.
This was a really cute middle grade novel. Alex is hilarious and I love how he swooned over girls in general and Bijou in particular. He reminds me of my 13-year-old neighbor: sweet, funny, charming, and studious.
Bijou, on the other hand, didn't excite me much and I couldn't figure out why Alex was so enamored with her. She was described as beautiful, which explains the initial attraction, but she wasn't given enough of a personality to make me swoon over their interactions. I much preferred reading about Jou Jou, Bijou's older brother. He was so lively and fun; someone I'd like to hang out with.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
June 16, 2014
This book is written with alternating narrators--Alex and Bijou. This provides a natural way to allow both these characters to develop fully. It also provides a great opportunity for the reader to begin to learn about the Haitian culture.
Alex's ideas about what's ok and what is not are based on his middle-class American background; consequently, he finds it very difficult to understand Bijou's acceptance of very strict Haitian behavior standards. The author has carefully researched Haitian culture and reveals it without becoming pedantic.
There is a natural comparison of this book to Romeo and Juliet, but this telling of the that story is appropriate for middle school readers and has an OK ending with the potential for a happy ending. I\t is interesting to get the male view of the first crush. I know that many people don't understand the emotional depth of tween boys, but I think this book is accurate in its presentation of Alex's feelings and the difficulties he encounters when trying to act on them.
I also feel this book does a good job of addressing many of the issues of middle schoolers: bullying by boys and girls, crushes, the need to be considered old enough to make your own life decisions. I like the book and am eager to hear what others have to say about it. (1,DM-1)
Alex's ideas about what's ok and what is not are based on his middle-class American background; consequently, he finds it very difficult to understand Bijou's acceptance of very strict Haitian behavior standards. The author has carefully researched Haitian culture and reveals it without becoming pedantic.
There is a natural comparison of this book to Romeo and Juliet, but this telling of the that story is appropriate for middle school readers and has an OK ending with the potential for a happy ending. I\t is interesting to get the male view of the first crush. I know that many people don't understand the emotional depth of tween boys, but I think this book is accurate in its presentation of Alex's feelings and the difficulties he encounters when trying to act on them.
I also feel this book does a good job of addressing many of the issues of middle schoolers: bullying by boys and girls, crushes, the need to be considered old enough to make your own life decisions. I like the book and am eager to hear what others have to say about it. (1,DM-1)
April 22, 2017
This book is a fun read for 5th-8th graders. It's the story of a boy and a girl falling in like, middle school style (speculations, grand plans to get to know each other without making it obvious, awkwardness, etc.).
Things I liked - The story is narrated by both characters. I enjoyed the contrast between voice and personality of the two. Also, the reader is able to become aware of the fact that not all kids/families around the world have the same ideals and expectations. Bijou (one of the main characters) is Haitian. Bijou's family perceptions of American lifestyle/ the American character's perceptions of Bijou's family rules teach the reader a bit about Haitian culture, as well as cultural awareness in general. The reader also becomes aware of stereotyping and how untrue stereotypes can be. I also loved that the author wrote in a few experiences of Haitian/Haitian American friends as Bijou's own experiences.
Things I was less impressed with: Though the story is cute, it is not high quality literature. To have the voices of the two main characters be authentic, they use language that is less formal, and there are few vocabulary opportunities (other than French to English). I also wished that Alex and Bijou hadn't been so sneaky about having to see each other. I could imagine a young person assuming it is necessary to sneak around parents for love.
Things I liked - The story is narrated by both characters. I enjoyed the contrast between voice and personality of the two. Also, the reader is able to become aware of the fact that not all kids/families around the world have the same ideals and expectations. Bijou (one of the main characters) is Haitian. Bijou's family perceptions of American lifestyle/ the American character's perceptions of Bijou's family rules teach the reader a bit about Haitian culture, as well as cultural awareness in general. The reader also becomes aware of stereotyping and how untrue stereotypes can be. I also loved that the author wrote in a few experiences of Haitian/Haitian American friends as Bijou's own experiences.
Things I was less impressed with: Though the story is cute, it is not high quality literature. To have the voices of the two main characters be authentic, they use language that is less formal, and there are few vocabulary opportunities (other than French to English). I also wished that Alex and Bijou hadn't been so sneaky about having to see each other. I could imagine a young person assuming it is necessary to sneak around parents for love.
August 26, 2014
Aaah, young love...
This was like travelling back in time and I could remember my first crush back in elementary. I wonder where he is now...
Anyway, I can't help but smile at the first chapter. I think that would be my most favorite part of the book. You have to read A Song for Bijou to find out what it is! So, shy, 7th-grader Alex has a crush on a Haitian girl, Bijou, and with the help of his friends, he comes up with ways to hang out with her despite Bijou's very strict uncle, and adorableness ensues.
Alex is sweet and awkward that I couldn't help but root for him. Bijou on the other hand, is described as beautiful, but she didn't have much of a personality to win me over. I would rather prefer reading about Mary Agnes and Nomura. Now that, I would like to see how it would end up! Can I have a sequel on that, please?
Overall, this was a pretty cute middle-grade book on first loves.
This was like travelling back in time and I could remember my first crush back in elementary. I wonder where he is now...
Anyway, I can't help but smile at the first chapter. I think that would be my most favorite part of the book. You have to read A Song for Bijou to find out what it is! So, shy, 7th-grader Alex has a crush on a Haitian girl, Bijou, and with the help of his friends, he comes up with ways to hang out with her despite Bijou's very strict uncle, and adorableness ensues.
Alex is sweet and awkward that I couldn't help but root for him. Bijou on the other hand, is described as beautiful, but she didn't have much of a personality to win me over. I would rather prefer reading about Mary Agnes and Nomura. Now that, I would like to see how it would end up! Can I have a sequel on that, please?
Overall, this was a pretty cute middle-grade book on first loves.
August 17, 2017
Oh this was such a lovely book! So sweet and true in all of the right ways. I love the characters and how wholesome and real they are. I love how Alex tries so hard to make a budding relationship work with Bijou (but you know that Haitian girls don't date lmao). He starts off ignorant, in an understandable way - not many people know about Haiti (besides the 2010 earthquake). I also feel that his ignorance gives a clean slate to really learn about Haiti and it's people, there's no preconceived notions and pitying on "those poor little Haitians".
Anyway, I love how he goes to work about learning as much as he can about Bijou's home country and her culture, just so that he can know her!
And I can't help but smile at Bijou's family dynamic; without a doubt, the author really spent some time talking to Haitians and Haitian Americans.
I don't know what else to say, such a great book. And finally seeing some literature that's putting Haiti in a positive light and showing Haitians as truly people and not some tragic stereotype.
Anyway, I love how he goes to work about learning as much as he can about Bijou's home country and her culture, just so that he can know her!
And I can't help but smile at Bijou's family dynamic; without a doubt, the author really spent some time talking to Haitians and Haitian Americans.
I don't know what else to say, such a great book. And finally seeing some literature that's putting Haiti in a positive light and showing Haitians as truly people and not some tragic stereotype.
November 14, 2017
Author: Josh Farrar
3 stars
I'm currently writing a middle grade book so it was great to read one too! This was a sweet little first crush story, but also the story of a young Haitian girl trying to navigate life in America after fleeing Haiti after the earthquakes.
As is customary in Haiti, young girls aren't allowed to hang out with friends, let alone boys they might like, outside of school and church. So these two have to get creative in order to spend time together. As a result, the boy, Alex, learns the rada (Haitian drumming) from their chaperone - Bijou's sweet older brother. It made me wish I could be there with them, learning the rada, or just sitting back to watch them and all the other drummers, just jam and do their thing!
It dragged at times, but overall a good read that will open some minds and remind you of your first crush, perhaps.
P.S. it also made me glad the internet wasn't around when I was in year seven! #asongforbijou #joshfarrar #middlegradefiction
3 stars
I'm currently writing a middle grade book so it was great to read one too! This was a sweet little first crush story, but also the story of a young Haitian girl trying to navigate life in America after fleeing Haiti after the earthquakes.
As is customary in Haiti, young girls aren't allowed to hang out with friends, let alone boys they might like, outside of school and church. So these two have to get creative in order to spend time together. As a result, the boy, Alex, learns the rada (Haitian drumming) from their chaperone - Bijou's sweet older brother. It made me wish I could be there with them, learning the rada, or just sitting back to watch them and all the other drummers, just jam and do their thing!
It dragged at times, but overall a good read that will open some minds and remind you of your first crush, perhaps.
P.S. it also made me glad the internet wasn't around when I was in year seven! #asongforbijou #joshfarrar #middlegradefiction
January 16, 2015
A great contemporary novel for the intermediate/YA age group. Most of the characters fully encompass the awkwardness of the age--changing friendships, changing emotions, social dynamics--in a way that's believable. I tend to dislike stories split between two narrators. I tend to find it gimmicky, and not often well done. Fortunately, that is not the case with A Song for Bijou. The two main characters' style of thought and speech are distinctly their own, and the whole unreliable narrator issue is laid out for the reader.
The book also nicely mixes different themes from the classic (conflicting traditions, forbidden romance) to the contemporary (SES in urban environments, cyberbullying, teen rebelliousness).
The book also nicely mixes different themes from the classic (conflicting traditions, forbidden romance) to the contemporary (SES in urban environments, cyberbullying, teen rebelliousness).
November 5, 2013
First, I would like to mention that this is definitely for the upper middle grade set. Much of the book focuses on Alex, a seventh grader, and the huge crush he has a new girl, Bijou. Some of the emotions might be a bit much for 8-10 year-olds to understand.
This is definitely a unique concept and plot that I don't think I have read lately in a middle grade. Showing first love and how that grows and evolves, especially in the light of a multi-cultural relationship, makes for an interesting, fun read. I enjoyed seeing the characters grow, especially as they learn how to deal with those who aren't as open to other cultures and ideas. I think both boys and girls would like this book.
This is definitely a unique concept and plot that I don't think I have read lately in a middle grade. Showing first love and how that grows and evolves, especially in the light of a multi-cultural relationship, makes for an interesting, fun read. I enjoyed seeing the characters grow, especially as they learn how to deal with those who aren't as open to other cultures and ideas. I think both boys and girls would like this book.
February 19, 2017
This was just the cutest thing ever. A middle grade romance about two seventh graders pursuing a crush, and having to figure out how to deal with the changes this makes in their families and friendships. Set among a very realistically diverse cast of New York kids, and written in alternating perspectives with two very clear, unique voices, this was so easy to get lost in. And did I mention it's just *THE CUTEST* because o m g. Definitely worth a read.
(Trigger Warnings for bullying and racism. A group of four mean kids terrorize the main characters through the whole book and are willing to go to really gross racist and sexist places to make their points.)
(Trigger Warnings for bullying and racism. A group of four mean kids terrorize the main characters through the whole book and are willing to go to really gross racist and sexist places to make their points.)
August 3, 2016
Wow! Never thought I could enjoy a romance between seventh graders. I mean, look at them (so young)! And look at me (so old)! LOL I'm not used to having kids this young as the subject of my romance book but I must say that this book brought back old memories, it's cute. I couldn't count how many times I giggled while reading this book, I felt silly. This is a well-written book with loveable characters (the main ones and their friends as well). I think kids around this age would enjoy this book as much as I did (and I'm old...gah!).
May 23, 2017
Wow, this is an amazing book. This book I can read 0ver and over again and not get bored of it. Bijou's story and how she got t0 New York from Haiti is heartbreaking. Alex's reaction from when first saw Bijou when she came out the store was just too cute. The ending was even cuter! I want there to be a second book so bad, I just want to keep reading about how much they like each other and if they grow up being friends or more! Such a good book, I recommend to anyone that likes romance books and if you are trying to find a good romance book you should read this one.
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