"Tangerine" by Edward Bloor is a captivating young adult novel that tells the story of Paul Fisher, a seventh-grader who moves to a new town and joins the soccer team. Paul struggles with being overshadowed by his older brother, who is a star football player, and with his own vision impairment. As he navigates the challenges of his new school and team, Paul uncovers dark secrets about the community and his own family.
The novel is written in a unique format, with excerpts from Paul's school essays and journal entries interspersed throughout the narrative. This adds depth to the story and allows readers to connect with Paul on a more personal level. The character development in "Tangerine" is excellent, as Paul grows and learns from his experiences throughout the book.
One of the standout aspects of "Tangerine" is its exploration of themes such as discrimination, family dynamics, and the power of perseverance. The novel tackles these complex issues with sensitivity and insight, making it a thought-provoking read for young readers.
Overall, "Tangerine" is a well-written and engaging novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. It is a story of resilience, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a compelling and thought-provoking read.