Tangerine, a young adult novel by Edward Bloor, blends realistic fiction with mystery, exploring themes of identity and belonging in a unique Florida setting. Available as a PDF online, it’s highly rated, making it accessible for digital readers seeking an engaging story about growth and self-discovery.
1.1 Overview of the Book
Tangerine, written by Edward Bloor, is a young adult novel published in 1997. The story follows Paul Fisher, a visually impaired teenager, as he navigates life in the quirky town of Tangerine County, Florida. Blending elements of realistic fiction and mystery, the book explores themes of identity, belonging, and self-discovery. Available as a PDF online, it offers a suspenseful yet hopeful journey through Paul’s unique experiences.
1.2 Author Background: Edward Bloor
Edward Bloor, an American author known for his engaging young adult literature, wrote Tangerine in 1997. His work often explores themes of identity and social issues, resonating with teen readers. Bloor’s unique storytelling style and ability to craft relatable characters have made Tangerine a standout novel in its genre, earning praise for its blend of realism and suspense.
1.3 Genre and Target Audience
Tangerine falls under the genre of young adult realistic fiction with elements of mystery. It appeals primarily to middle-grade and high school students, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and self-discovery. The story’s relatable protagonist and engaging plot make it suitable for readers aged 12 and above, particularly those drawn to coming-of-age narratives and stories about overcoming challenges in a unique setting.
Plot Summary
Tangerine follows Paul Fisher’s journey in Tangerine County, Florida, where a sinkhole disrupts his life, leading to a new school and unexpected friendships, revealing family secrets.
2.1 Setting: Tangerine County, Florida
Tangerine County, a fictional town in Florida, serves as the unique backdrop for Paul Fisher’s journey. The story unfolds over four months, from August to December, in this distinctive community where the Fisher family stands out. The setting’s small-town dynamics and environmental quirks, like sinkholes, play a crucial role in shaping Paul’s experiences and the plot’s progression.
2.2 Major Events and Turning Points
Tangerine features pivotal moments that shape Paul Fisher’s journey. A sinkhole damages his school, prompting his transfer to Tangerine Middle, where he joins the War Eagles soccer team. Key events include his friendship with Theresa and Tino Cruz, his brother Erik’s influence, and Paul’s internal conflict over revealing secrets about his new classmates, driving the narrative toward its hopeful resolution.
Main Characters
Paul Fisher, the protagonist, navigates challenges in Tangerine County alongside his brother Erik, a charismatic figure with a complex influence. Key friends include Theresa and Tino Cruz.
3.1 Paul Fisher: The Protagonist
Paul Fisher is the relatable protagonist of Tangerine, navigating his life in the quirky town of Tangerine County, Florida. His journey involves transferring to a new school, joining the soccer team, and forming friendships with Theresa and Tino Cruz. Paul’s character development is marked by his resilience, loyalty, and growth as he faces challenges and uncovers truths about himself and his family, particularly his brother Erik. The story highlights his unique perspective on identity and belonging.
3.2 Key Supporting Characters
Theresa and Tino Cruz are Paul’s loyal friends and teammates, offering support and camaraderie. Erik Fisher, Paul’s older brother, is a charismatic football star with a complex relationship with Paul. Mr. Tso and Coach Walski provide guidance, while Joey, the goalkeeper, adds humor and friendship. These characters shape Paul’s journey, influencing his growth and decisions in Tangerine County.
Themes and Symbolism
In Edward Bloor’s Tangerine, themes of identity and belonging are central, as Paul navigates his new life in Tangerine County. The tangerine color symbolizes hope and transformation, reflecting Paul’s journey and the community’s resilience.
4.1 Themes of Identity and Belonging
In Tangerine, Paul Fisher’s journey revolves around finding his place in a new environment. His struggle to fit in at Tangerine Middle School and his experiences on the soccer team highlight the challenges of identity and belonging, mirroring the broader theme of self-discovery and acceptance in a community marked by its unique culture and history.
4;2 Symbolism in the Story
The tangerine setting symbolizes a fresh start for Paul, while the sinkhole represents upheaval and transformation. The War Eagles soccer team embodies unity and hope, contrasting with the town’s peculiarities; These symbols weave together to create a rich narrative tapestry, reflecting Paul’s personal growth and the community’s resilience in overcoming adversity. The PDF version captures these elements vividly for readers to explore.
“Tangerine” Study Guide
The Tangerine study guide offers a comprehensive analysis, including chapter-by-chapter breakdowns and discussion questions, available as a free PDF for deeper engagement with the novel.
5.1 Chapter-by-Chapter Analysis
The Tangerine study guide provides a detailed breakdown of each chapter, offering insights into key events, character development, and thematic elements. From Paul’s initial struggles to his eventual growth, the guide highlights pivotal moments, such as the sinkhole incident and his integration into Tangerine Middle School. This resource is available as a free PDF, making it accessible for readers seeking a deeper understanding of the novel.
5.2 Discussion Questions and Test Prep
The Tangerine study guide includes thought-provoking discussion questions, such as Paul’s motivations for not exposing the truth and his feelings about moving to Tangerine County. Test prep materials focus on key themes like identity and belonging, helping readers analyze the novel’s deeper meanings. These resources, available in the PDF, are ideal for students preparing for exams or seeking a richer understanding of the story.
Availability of “Tangerine Book PDF”
The Tangerine Book PDF is available online through various platforms, offering readers convenient access to Edward Bloor’s novel. Ensure to use legal and authorized sources for download.
6.1 Where to Find the PDF Online
The Tangerine Book PDF is readily available online through numerous reputable platforms. Readers can access it via trusted eBook websites or online libraries, ensuring a legal and safe download experience. By choosing authorized sources, you support the author and publishers, contributing to the sustainability of literary works.
6.2 Legal and Free Sources
Accessing Tangerine Book PDF legally is crucial to support authors and publishers. Free sources like Project Gutenberg or ManyBooks offer legitimate downloads, ensuring quality and legality. Always verify the site’s credibility to avoid pirated content. Legal downloads promote ethical reading and sustain the literary community, providing readers with guilt-free access to great books like Tangerine;
Critical Reception
Tangerine has received positive reviews for its unique blend of mystery and realistic fiction, with critics praising its suspenseful narrative and hopeful tone, earning a 9.4/10 rating.
7.1 Reviews and Ratings
Tangerine has garnered widespread acclaim, boasting a stellar 9.4/10 rating. Readers praise its suspenseful narrative and hopeful tone, while educators appreciate its educational value. Available as a PDF, it remains a popular choice for both leisurely reads and school curriculums, highlighting its universal appeal and thought-provoking themes.
7.2 Literary Analysis and Criticism
Critics acclaim Tangerine for its vivid portrayal of adolescent struggles and societal issues. Bloor’s narrative masterfully blends suspense with heartfelt moments, creating a compelling exploration of identity and belonging. The setting of Tangerine County, with its eccentricities, serves as a metaphor for the challenges of growing up. Scholars praise the book’s ability to balance realism with hopeful undertones, making it a significant work in young adult literature.
Writing Style and Structure
Edward Bloor employs a first-person narrative in Tangerine, offering an intimate perspective on Paul’s journey. The story unfolds over four months, blending suspense and hope, with a structure that enhances emotional depth and character development.
8.1 Narrative Voice and Perspective
The narrative voice in Tangerine is delivered through Paul Fisher’s first-person perspective, offering a deeply personal and introspective account of his journey. This intimate storytelling style allows readers to closely connect with Paul’s emotions and experiences, creating an immersive experience. The voice is authentic and relatable, capturing the challenges and growth of a young protagonist navigating identity and belonging in Tangerine County, Florida.
8.2 Use of Suspense and Mystery
Edward Bloor masterfully crafts suspense and mystery in Tangerine, keeping readers engaged with unexpected events and subtle foreshadowing. The sinkhole incident and the eerie atmosphere of Tangerine County create tension, while Paul’s discoveries about his brother and the town’s secrets unfold gradually, maintaining intrigue. This blend of mystery and suspense enhances the story’s emotional depth and keeps readers invested in the narrative’s unfolding drama.
Historical and Cultural Context
Tangerine is set in modern-day Florida, reflecting the state’s unique cultural landscape. The story’s setting in Tangerine County highlights small-town dynamics and the challenges of adolescence in a distinctive regional context;
9.1 Setting and Its Significance
The story unfolds in Tangerine County, Florida, a fictional small town that serves as a unique backdrop for Paul’s journey. The setting’s rural, tight-knit community contrasts with Paul’s previous life, emphasizing themes of identity and belonging. The county’s quirky environment, including its unpredictable weather and sinkholes, mirrors the chaos and unpredictability of adolescence, making the setting integral to the narrative’s emotional and psychological depth.
9.2 Cultural Themes in the Book
Tangerine delves into cultural themes such as social class, community dynamics, and the influence of sports in shaping identities. The eccentricities of Tangerine County, like its quirky traditions and tight-knit population, reflect broader cultural tensions between conformity and individuality. These elements enrich the narrative, offering insights into how societal expectations and local culture impact Paul’s journey of self-discovery and belonging.
Educational Value
Tangerine offers rich educational value, exploring themes of identity, perseverance, and moral choices. Its relatable characters and realistic scenarios make it ideal for school curriculum and sparking meaningful discussions.
10.1 Use in School Curriculum
Tangerine is widely used in middle and high school English classes due to its engaging narrative and relatable themes. Its exploration of identity, family dynamics, and perseverance aligns with educational goals, fostering critical thinking and empathy. The book’s realistic fiction and mystery elements make it ideal for curriculum inclusion, encouraging discussions on real-world issues and moral dilemmas. Teachers often use the PDF version for easy distribution and accessibility, enhancing classroom engagement and meeting educational standards.
10.2 Lessons and Morals for Readers
Tangerine offers valuable lessons about honesty, empathy, and self-acceptance. Paul’s journey highlights the importance of embracing one’s true identity and overcoming adversity. The novel teaches readers to confront family secrets and societal expectations, fostering resilience and understanding. Its themes encourage readers to reflect on kindness, fairness, and the impact of their actions on others, making it a powerful tool for personal growth and moral development.
Comparison with Other Works
Tangerine shares themes of self-discovery and family secrets with works like The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Catcher in the Rye, yet its unique Florida setting sets it apart, offering a fresh take on adolescent struggles and identity, making it a compelling read for fans of coming-of-age stories available as a PDF.
11.1 Similar Themes in Other Books
Tangerine explores themes of identity, family secrets, and self-discovery, mirroring works like The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Catcher in the Rye. These novels share a focus on adolescent struggles, belonging, and societal pressures, offering readers relatable journeys of growth. While Tangerine stands out with its unique Florida setting, its core themes resonate with fans of coming-of-age stories, making it a compelling addition to the genre.
11.2 Unique Aspects of “Tangerine”
Tangerine stands out with its vivid setting in the fictional Tangerine County, blending realism with a touch of mystery. The first-person narrative offers a unique perspective on Paul’s journey, while its focus on soccer and family dynamics adds freshness to the coming-of-age genre. The book’s ability to balance humor with deeper themes of identity and belonging makes it a standout read in young adult literature.
Tangerine is a compelling read that explores identity, belonging, and resilience. Its unique setting and relatable themes make it a must-read for young adult fiction enthusiasts seeking thoughtful storytelling.
12.1 Final Thoughts on the Book
Tangerine by Edward Bloor is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, belonging, and resilience. Its unique setting in Tangerine County, Florida, combined with its relatable characters, makes it a memorable read. The story’s ability to balance suspense with hope ensures it leaves a lasting impression on readers. Highly recommended for fans of young adult fiction and realistic storytelling.
12.2 Recommendations for Further Reading
For fans of Tangerine, consider exploring similar young adult novels that blend realism with suspense. The School Fruit Scheme offers cultural insights, while Darryl Pinckney’s works provide deep literary exploration. Additionally, realistic fiction enthusiasts may enjoy books like The House on Mango Street or The Giver, which delve into themes of identity and societal challenges, offering compelling narratives for readers seeking meaningful stories.