Brothers, M. (2008). Debbie Harry Sings in French. New York. Henry Holt and Company, LLC.
This book was a quick, interesting read. I don’t think all high school students feel like outsiders but those who do will be able to relate.
Johnny’s father is dead. His mother is having trouble coping. He starts dressing like an emo (goth) and drinking heavily. Johnny loves 80’s punk type music and falls in love with Debbie Harry. After he almost dies when someone slips him drugs, he is sent to live with his uncle in the South. Johnny discovers he has a penchant for dressing in women’s clothing. His new girlfriend, who has her own problems, encourages it and, in fact, helps him put together a Debbie Harry outfit to try to win money in a drag show in Atlanta.
The story is about accepting and embracing who you are. It is an easy read that will appeal to most teenagers, even if they don’t feel like outsiders.
ceejay78 - My brain is bigger 'cause I read! 