This one is ours by Kate O'Donnell

UQP, 2020. ISBN: 9780702260285.
(Age: 14-18) Recommended. Leaving behind her Australian family and childhood friend, Crow (the slightly activist-realist in her life), Sofie has the opportunity for a 6-month exchange program in Paris, the city of love, art, history, revolution and so much more. Her exchange year has her placed within a family who share her love of the Arts and self-expression. The daughter, her Parisian 'sister', also introduces her to the world of protest as the younger generation look at injustice and climate change within the city known for Revolution and Renaissance. As a student who is immersed in the city with so much atmosphere and history, Sofie explores her own art, walks through Paris and finds romance with more than just her surrounds. All the time she remains connected to Crow via technology, and their shared friendship keeps her thoughtful, grounded and linked despite time zones. Forced to think deeply as she translates her experience into French and explore what is really important in life, she makes meaning and art, joins in the fight for change, and grows in maturity.
With so much French language dotted through the text, this book will be loved by French language students and also lovers of Art movements. The story opens eyes in a glorious exploration of seeing the world differently and learning to find your voice and grow in understanding of the important things in life. Sofie is brave and the exchange experience at the age of 16 is portrayed as a wonderful journey of personal discovery. Wandering with Sofie through Paris is a joy for the reader, and the first-love romance with the charismatic Olivier will appeal to readers who enjoy romance stories. Well written and insightful and set within contemporary France, this book can be recommended for readers aged 14+. Teacher's notes are available.
Themes: Coming-of-age, Paris, Exchange programs, Art, Romance.
Carolyn Hull