Tangerine
Book Summary:
Paul has just moved with his family from Austin, Texas to Tangerine, Florida, where he tries to adjust to life in this new situation. Paul lives in fear of super-star brother, while his parents dote over Erik. Something from Paul’s past is working its way into his memory as he struggles to find his own identity. Attending a new school, making new friends, and overcoming his eye-sight disability to play soccer, are challenges Paul must meet. A freak accident at the school gives Paul a new opportunity to attend an inner-city school and play on the school soccer team. Through it all, Paul finds the reason for his disability and new hope beyond the former “clouded” past.
APA Reference:
Bloor, E. (1997). Tangerine. Harcourt Brace & Co.
My Impressions:
This story is my favorite new read of the course. It is well-written, with well defined characters, typical tween problems, which Paul attempts overcome, and evokes emotion from the readers—leaving them wanting more when the book comes to an end. Readers share compassion for Paul through his struggles and cheer for his courage and tenacity. I eagerly anticipated the finale when Paul realized the cause of his disability, which was directly tied to his psycho brother. This left me empathizing with Paul and the struggles he endured. Evoking feelings like this reveals a great read in my estimation.
Professional Review:
A repressed childhood tragedy leaves Paul legally blind. His family moves to Tangerine County, Florida and Paul tries to make his way in a new school. Hindered by his IEP (Individualized Education Plan) to play his favorite sport, soccer, and living in the shadow of his older brother, Erik, Paul chooses to attend an inner-city school to fulfill his dream. But Erik’s actions trigger haunting memories for Paul. “This is an exciting, suspenseful, and thought-provoking book that should be a hit with soccer-playing middle schoolers.” Recommended for ages 11-15.
Moses-Allen, B. (1997, Aug.). [Review of the book Tangerine by E. Bloor]. VOYA. 20(3)134, 293. Retrieved from http://www.voya.com/.
Library Uses:
Reading this book to a classroom of middle-school students helps them become more aware of special-needs students in a safe, group setting. Being more aware of special situations may reduce bullying, increase understanding of special needs classmates, and help them develop social skills. Bullying is becoming increasingly prevalent and the strong characters and decisions made in the book could spark conversation and assist in “bullying” prevention.
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