Tangerine by Edward Bloor: An Overview
Edward Bloor’s “Tangerine” tells the tale of Paul Fisher, a visually impaired boy navigating a new life in Tangerine, Florida. He grapples with family secrets, environmental issues, and his brother’s troubling behavior, making it a story of identity and perception.
Synopsis of Tangerine
“Tangerine” unfolds through the eyes of Paul Fisher, a legally blind seventh-grader, as his family relocates to the aptly named town of Tangerine, Florida. Paul’s world is defined by his thick glasses and a clouded past, shrouded in a mysterious childhood incident involving his eyes and his older brother, Erik. Erik, a star football player, dominates the family’s attention, casting a long shadow over Paul.
As Paul navigates his new environment, he enrolls in a different school, Lake Windsor Middle, where he encounters a diverse group of friends and faces challenges both on and off the soccer field. Simultaneously, Paul uncovers unsettling truths about his brother’s actions and his parents’ complicity in covering them up. The move to Tangerine reveals a community grappling with sinkholes, muck fires, and social inequalities, all mirroring the hidden cracks within the Fisher family.
Throughout the story, Paul seeks to understand his past, reconcile with his present, and assert his own identity amidst the chaos and deception surrounding him. “Tangerine” is a compelling exploration of truth, justice, and the power of self-discovery;
Main Characters
Paul Fisher: The protagonist and narrator, Paul is a legally blind seventh-grader who struggles to understand his past and find his place in the world. He is observant, determined, and possesses a strong sense of justice. Paul’s visual impairment often leads others to underestimate him, but he consistently proves his resilience and intelligence.
Erik Fisher: Paul’s older brother, Erik, is a charismatic and talented football player who receives excessive attention and praise from his parents. Beneath his charming facade lies a manipulative and cruel nature, and he is responsible for the mysterious incident that damaged Paul’s eyesight. Erik’s actions drive much of the conflict in the novel.
Mr. and Mrs. Fisher: Paul and Erik’s parents are preoccupied with Erik’s football career and often neglect Paul’s emotional needs. They prioritize appearances and maintain a facade of normalcy, even when faced with disturbing truths about Erik’s behavior. Their actions contribute to Paul’s sense of isolation and his quest for truth.
Theresa Cruz and the Cruz Family: Paul’s friends and allies at Tangerine Middle School, the Cruz family introduces Paul to a different perspective on life and community. They represent honesty, hard work, and a strong connection to the land. Luis Cruz, in particular, becomes a mentor figure for Paul.
Availability of “Tangerine” in PDF Format
Finding “Tangerine” in PDF format can offer convenient access. Several online platforms may host PDF versions for download or online reading. However, be mindful of copyright and legality when accessing these digital copies of the book.
Downloading “Tangerine” as a PDF
If you’re looking to download “Tangerine” as a PDF, there are several avenues to explore, keeping in mind the importance of respecting copyright laws. One approach is to check online platforms that offer digital books, such as online libraries or educational resource sites. These platforms sometimes provide free or paid access to PDF versions of books, including “Tangerine.” It’s crucial to verify the legitimacy of the source to ensure you’re not infringing on copyright regulations.
Another option is to investigate online archives or repositories that may contain digitized versions of the novel. These archives often offer a wide range of books in PDF format, making them a valuable resource for readers seeking digital copies. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and ensure that the archive complies with copyright laws before downloading any material.
Additionally, consider checking with your local library or educational institution, as they may offer access to digital versions of “Tangerine” through their online resources. Many libraries now provide e-books and other digital content to their patrons, making it a convenient way to access the novel in PDF format while adhering to copyright regulations.
Reading “Tangerine” Online
If you prefer reading “Tangerine” online without downloading a PDF, numerous platforms offer access to digital versions of the novel. Many online bookstores and e-reading services provide “Tangerine” as an e-book, allowing you to read it directly on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. These platforms often have user-friendly interfaces and features like adjustable font sizes and bookmarking.
Online libraries are another excellent resource for reading “Tangerine” online. Many libraries offer digital lending services, where you can borrow e-books for a limited time. This allows you to enjoy the novel without purchasing it, while still respecting copyright laws.
Additionally, some websites dedicated to literature and reading provide access to “Tangerine” in an online reader format. These readers often allow you to flip through the pages of the book as if you were reading a physical copy. However, it’s essential to ensure that the website is a legitimate source and that it has the necessary permissions to host the novel online.
Remember to always prioritize legal and ethical access to copyrighted material.
Themes Explored in “Tangerine”
“Tangerine” delves into several important themes, including identity, family dynamics, and environmental issues. The novel explores how these themes intertwine and impact the characters’ lives, particularly Paul’s journey of self-discovery amidst challenging circumstances in Tangerine, Florida.
Identity and Perception
In “Tangerine,” identity and perception are central themes, primarily explored through the experiences of Paul Fisher, the protagonist. Paul’s visual impairment shapes how he perceives the world, often contrasting with how others see it. His thick glasses become a symbol of his perceived otherness, influencing his sense of self.
The novel masterfully juxtaposes Paul’s physical blindness with the metaphorical blindness of other characters, particularly concerning the actions of his older brother, Erik. While Paul struggles to see clearly, others choose not to see the truth about Erik’s behavior. This creates a compelling narrative about the different ways people perceive reality and how those perceptions shape their identities.
Paul’s journey involves uncovering hidden truths and challenging the established perceptions of those around him. He learns to trust his instincts and develop his own understanding of the world, independent of his physical limitations. Through soccer and his interactions with his peers at Lake Windsor Middle School and Tangerine Middle School, Paul forges a unique identity that defies expectations. Ultimately, “Tangerine” highlights the subjective nature of reality and the power of individual perception in shaping one’s identity.
Family Dynamics
The family dynamics in “Tangerine” are complex and dysfunctional, playing a crucial role in shaping Paul Fisher’s experiences. The Fisher family’s move to Tangerine, Florida, exposes deeper issues within their relationships, particularly the tension between Paul, his parents, and his older brother, Erik. Erik, the football star, receives the majority of his parents’ attention and admiration, often at Paul’s expense.
Paul’s parents seem oblivious to Erik’s true nature, blinded by his athletic prowess and their desire for him to succeed. This neglect leaves Paul feeling isolated and misunderstood. He struggles to connect with his parents, who are often preoccupied with Erik’s football career and their own aspirations.
The novel explores the impact of favoritism, neglect, and hidden secrets on family relationships. As Paul uncovers the truth about his past and Erik’s actions, the family’s foundation begins to crumble. The move to Tangerine serves as a catalyst for revealing the deep-seated problems that have plagued the Fisher family for years. Ultimately, “Tangerine” highlights the importance of honesty, communication, and genuine connection within a family.
Environmental Issues
“Tangerine” by Edward Bloor weaves environmental issues into its narrative, using the unique setting of Tangerine, Florida, to highlight the consequences of unchecked development and disregard for nature. The novel depicts the stark contrast between the pristine, natural environment and the encroaching suburban sprawl, exposing the detrimental effects of human activity on the delicate ecosystem.
Sinkholes, a recurring motif in the book, symbolize the instability and hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of the seemingly idyllic community. These sinkholes are a direct result of unsustainable construction practices and the manipulation of the natural landscape for profit.
The citrus groves, a defining feature of Tangerine, are threatened by development and disease, representing the loss of natural resources and the destruction of traditional ways of life. Bloor uses the environmental degradation to mirror the moral decay and social issues within the community. The characters’ interactions with the environment reflect their values and their impact on the world around them. Through Paul’s experiences, the novel encourages readers to consider the importance of environmental stewardship and the consequences of neglecting our planet.
Edward Bloor’s “Tangerine”: Critical Reception
“Tangerine” has been lauded for its engaging narrative and exploration of complex themes. Critics appreciate Bloor’s ability to weave together suspense, social commentary, and character development into a compelling and thought-provoking young adult novel, making it a significant work.
Literary Significance
Edward Bloor’s “Tangerine” holds considerable literary significance within the realm of young adult fiction. The novel adeptly interweaves multiple themes, offering readers a complex narrative that transcends simple entertainment. Its strength lies in its ability to tackle serious issues without sacrificing its engaging storyline, marking it as a unique work that resists easy categorization.
The book’s relevance is amplified by its exploration of family dynamics, personal identity, and environmental concerns, presented through the eyes of its protagonist, Paul Fisher. Paul’s experiences with his vision impairment and his brother’s actions provide a compelling lens through which readers can examine themes of perception and truth.
Bloor’s writing style ensures the novel remains accessible to young readers while encouraging critical thinking about the world around them. This balance contributes to “Tangerine’s” lasting impact on young adult literature, solidifying its place as a novel that is both entertaining and deeply meaningful. Its unique narrative voice and thematic depth distinguish it in contemporary literature.
Relevance for Students
“Tangerine” by Edward Bloor offers significant relevance for students across various educational levels. The novel’s exploration of themes such as identity, perception, and family dynamics provides ample opportunities for classroom discussions and critical analysis. Students can easily connect with Paul Fisher’s struggles and triumphs, fostering empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives.
The book’s accessible language and engaging plot make it an excellent choice for encouraging reading comprehension and literary analysis skills. Furthermore, “Tangerine” addresses important social issues, including environmental responsibility and the consequences of prejudice, prompting students to think critically about their roles in society.
Moreover, the novel’s structure, with its use of diary entries and multiple points of view, offers students a valuable lesson in narrative techniques. Its exploration of sibling relationships and parental expectations can also spark important conversations about personal values and ethical decision-making. Overall, “Tangerine” stands as a relevant and impactful text that enriches students’ understanding of literature and the world around them.
