The text implies that this open communication will itself contribute to his continuing personal growth. In contrast, at the end of the novel, the protagonist exhibits open communication with his parents, signifying his growth as a character. The protagonist uses a journal as a form of self-expression both to communicate effectively to himself and to substitute for communication with his family. Communication - Throughout the novel, characters show difficulty communicating, often due to their desire to avoid difficult truths.Fear is also experienced from both sides, as when a winning team benefits from their opponents' fear before the game can even begin.

Fear - Many types of fear are illustrated, from fear of failure or being different to fear of physical assault.Blindness is also discussed at a clinical and metaphorical level, with visual impairment contrasted with self-deception and superficiality. Reality - The setting of the story seems to be welcoming and beautiful, yet in actuality is mysterious and flawed. Between these portrayals and Paul's ongoing struggle against ableism, as his visual impairment is used to ostracize him from various sports teams, Edward Bloor's Tangerine covers adolescent identity formation from a number of different facets. Traditional gender roles are also challenged due to Paul's unquestioning acceptance and admiration of his female teammates, despite the usual stereotyping of sports as a masculine domain. Paul's friendships with some of his new classmates are challenged by the racist rhetoric of his brother and old classmates, and the novel itself includes students of differing and complex moralities and interests from a wide range of racial backgrounds. In addition to the interpersonal, Tangerine also prompts discussion on several social issues. Students should also be able to relate to the complex social interactions Paul experiences at his two new schools and reflect on the role of fear and teamwork in sports competitions. For instance, Paul's difficult home life, the result of parental oversight and sibling abuse, will resonate with readers familiar with some form of family conflict. A former high school teacher, he lives near Orlando, Florida. At the same time, the novel allows ample and serious discussion on relatable issues. Edward Bloor is the author many acclaimed novels, including Tangerine, Crusader, and Story Time. Teachers can use Edward Bloor's Tangerine to introduce journal narrative, providing both diverting variation for students with this format, as well as a lovingly detailed Florida setting and a suspenseful plot.

Tangerine by edward bloor