In Edward Bloor’s Tangerine, Paul Fisher is the protagonist and he grapples with visual impairment and family secrets. These themes echo in the experiences of other characters such as Theresa, Tino, and Victor, all of them navigating the social dynamics of Tangerine Middle School and Lake Windsor High School. Joey Costello, a friend of Paul, experiences tragedy because of the lightning strike that killed his brother. The novel explores themes of identity and justice through each character’s experiences in the citrus-scented yet turbulent environment of Tangerine County.
Diving into “Tangerine”: It’s All About the Connections, Man!
Alright, picture this: sunny Florida, a kid with seriously impaired vision, and enough family drama to make your head spin. We’re talking about Edward Bloor’s The Tangerine Book, a novel that sucks you in from page one with its mystery, sports, and, of course, those juicy, juicy tangerines.
But let’s be real, underneath the surface of sinkholes and soccer games, “Tangerine” is all about the relationships. It’s like a soap opera for teens, but, you know, way more profound. The connections between the characters aren’t just plot devices; they’re the engine driving the whole darn story. These relationships peel back the layers of the characters revealing the good, the bad, and the downright ugly truths simmering beneath the surface.
Now, here’s a fun thought experiment: Let’s slap a “closeness rating” on these relationships, shall we? We’re talking a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 is “I wouldn’t spit on you if you were on fire” and 10 is “I’d take a bullet for you” (or, you know, share my last tangerine). For this deep dive, we’re zeroing in on the heavy hitters, the relationships rocking a solid 7-10 on our totally scientific closeness scale. Why? Because these are the connections that really matter. They expose the core of the story, revealing the themes of family, identity, and the messy, complicated search for truth that makes “Tangerine” such a compelling read.
The Fisher Family: A Crack in the Foundation (Or Maybe Several?)
The Fisher family. Ah, where do we even begin? They’re the epicenter of “Tangerine,” the sun around which all the other characters orbit. But instead of radiating warmth and harmony, this sun throws off some serious dysfunctional vibes. Think of them as a house of cards, teetering precariously, just waiting for a good tropical storm (or maybe just Erik’s latest scheme) to send it all crashing down. Let’s unpack this family drama, one member at a time, shall we?
Paul Fisher: Eyes Wide Open (Even If He Can’t See Perfectly)
Our main man, Paul. He’s the observant one, the outsider looking in. His visual impairment, caused by a childhood incident, ironically gives him a unique lens through which to view the world, and especially his family. He sees the cracks, the lies, the unspoken truths that everyone else seems to ignore. You can almost feel his perpetual state of feeling inadequate, constantly overshadowed by his golden-boy brother. It’s like he’s walking on eggshells, trying to navigate a family minefield without setting off an explosion. You gotta root for him, right?
Erik Fisher: The Golden Boy with a Twisted Core
Ah, Erik. The star quarterback, the pride and joy, the reason the Fishers uprooted their lives and moved to Florida. On the surface, he’s got it all – athletic talent, popularity, the unwavering support of his parents. But scratch beneath that shiny veneer, and you’ll find a whole lot of darkness. He’s manipulative, cruel, and utterly devoid of empathy. Remember the incident with Mike Costello? Chilling, right? Erik’s actions cast a long, dark shadow over the entire novel, shaping Paul’s experiences and ultimately leading to the family’s unraveling.
Mrs. Fisher: The Anxious Organizer (Bless Her Heart)
Bless her heart, Mrs. Fisher is trying. She’s the queen of spreadsheets, the master of organization, desperately trying to maintain order in a family that’s spiraling out of control. Her career fuels the family’s moves and aspirations, yet she remains seemingly oblivious to the toxic environment brewing right under her perfectly organized nose. Is she genuinely blind to Erik’s true nature, or is she simply choosing to look the other way? Is it easier to live a lie then confront the reality of her family? The answer, like most things in “Tangerine,” is complicated.
Mr. Fisher: The Football-Obsessed Father (Enough Said?)
And then there’s Mr. Fisher, whose world revolves almost entirely around Erik’s football career. He’s so fixated on his older son’s success that he completely neglects Paul, both emotionally and practically. He blindly enables Erik’s behavior, turning a blind eye to his misdeeds and reinforcing the idea that winning is all that matters. In doing so, he not only damages his relationship with Paul but also contributes to Erik’s increasingly destructive actions. His misplaced priorities have devastating consequences for everyone involved.
In conclusion, the Fisher family isn’t just dysfunctional; they’re a disaster waiting to happen. They are the catalyst of the conflict in the story. Through their relationships and interactions, Edward Bloor explores themes of family, truth, and the devastating consequences of misplaced priorities.
Forging Bonds: Friendships and Alliances at Tangerine Middle
Okay, so the Fisher family is, let’s just say, a lot. But Paul doesn’t just live in the shadow of his brother and the general weirdness of his parents; he also finds a real lifeline outside of it. Enter Tangerine Middle, where Paul discovers that maybe, just maybe, he can actually be himself and find people who see him for who he really is. Let’s meet the squad that helps Paul navigate the craziness.
Tino Cruz & Victor Cruz: Loyalty and Camaraderie
These guys are Paul’s ride-or-die crew. Tino and Victor aren’t just classmates; they’re the teammates who welcome Paul with open arms (and maybe a few playful jabs). They’re loyal to a fault and create this sense of belonging that Paul’s been craving his whole life. Think of them as the brothers he wished he had, offering a genuine connection that’s completely different from the twisted dynamic back home. They show Paul what true friendship looks like.
Luis Cruz: A Mentor Lost Too Soon
Oh, Luis. This guy is the real deal. More than just a tangerine farmer, Luis is a mentor figure for Paul, showing him the beauty and hard work involved in cultivating something real and tangible. His passion is infectious, and he sees Paul’s potential, offering guidance and support that’s sorely lacking in Paul’s life. But, as we know, life in Tangerine is never simple. The tragic circumstances of Luis’s death send ripples throughout the community, leaving a void in Paul’s life and fueling his desire for justice.
Kerri Gardner: Budding Romance and Acceptance
Ah, young love! Kerri is Paul’s classmate and a potential romantic interest, but she’s so much more than just a crush. She’s one of the first people who looks past Paul’s visual impairment and sees him for who he is – intelligent, observant, and kind. Her acceptance is a major turning point for Paul, giving him the confidence to embrace his own unique perspective.
Joey Costello: Grief and Disillusionment
Joey starts out in Erik’s orbit, initially friends, but the death of his brother, Mike, changes everything. Witnessing Erik’s true colors, Joey becomes disillusioned and starts to question everything he thought he knew. Eventually, he gravitates toward Paul and his group, seeking a more authentic connection and a sense of morality that’s completely absent in Erik’s world. His shift in allegiance is a testament to Paul’s growing influence and the power of real friendship.
Entanglement and Betrayal: The Ripple Effects of Erik’s Actions
Erik Fisher, the golden boy of the family, casts a long, dark shadow over everyone in “Tangerine.” His actions aren’t just isolated incidents; they’re like ripples in a pond, spreading out and contaminating everything they touch. It’s not enough to say Erik is a bad egg; we need to examine how his rottenness infects the relationships around him. Buckle up, because we’re diving into the twisted web of deceit and destruction that Erik spins!
Erik and Mike Costello: A Deadly Deception
The death of Mike Costello is a pivotal moment in “Tangerine,” a harsh dose of reality that shatters the illusion of Erik’s perfection. On the surface, it seems like a tragic accident, but as Paul digs deeper (much like he does with the muck fires!), he uncovers a disturbing truth: Erik is directly responsible for Mike’s death. The details are chilling – a seemingly harmless prank gone horribly wrong, fueled by Erik’s callous disregard for human life.
Erik’s involvement isn’t just a matter of negligence; it’s a calculated act of cruelty. He sees Mike as expendable, a pawn in his twisted game. The moral implications are staggering. This isn’t just about Erik being a bully; it’s about the value he places (or doesn’t place) on human life. The community is rocked by Mike’s death, but the real tragedy is the festering secret that poisons the atmosphere, turning grief into simmering rage and suspicion. It becomes a haunting reminder of how one person’s selfishness can devastate so many lives.
Erik and Arthur Bauer: Complicity and Control
Ah, Arthur Bauer, Erik’s loyal sidekick! He’s the Robin to Erik’s twisted Batman (if Batman was a sociopathic football star). Their relationship is built on a foundation of complicity and control. Arthur is willing to do Erik’s dirty work, no questions asked, because he craves Erik’s approval and basks in the reflected glory of his football fame. He’s the enabler, the one who allows Erik’s dark impulses to manifest in reality.
The power dynamic between them is fascinating and disturbing. Erik clearly holds all the cards, manipulating Arthur with promises of acceptance and belonging. Arthur, in turn, becomes increasingly entangled in Erik’s web of lies, sacrificing his own moral compass for the sake of maintaining their unequal friendship. But like all partnerships built on deceit, it’s doomed. Arthur’s eventual downfall is a direct consequence of his blind loyalty to Erik. He faces the legal and social repercussions of their actions, becoming a scapegoat for Erik’s sins. It’s a grim reminder that sometimes, the price of loyalty is far too high.
Character Journeys: Growth, Revelation, and Redemption
Paul Fisher: From Insecurity to Self-Assuredness
Okay, let’s talk about transformation! “Tangerine” isn’t just about moving to Florida and dealing with sinkholes; it’s about watching characters grow, especially our main guy, Paul Fisher. Think about it: at the start, Paul’s this insecure kid, always in the shadow of his super-jock brother, Erik. His visual impairment makes him feel even more like an outsider. But, as he starts building relationships, especially with his friends at Tangerine Middle—Tino, Victor, Kerri—he begins to find his voice. These connections are like little sparks, igniting his confidence.
It’s fascinating how Paul’s relationship with Luis Cruz, the tangerine farmer, acts as a catalyst. Luis becomes a mentor, teaching Paul about hard work, integrity, and standing up for what’s right. Sadly, Luis’s tragic death becomes a major turning point. It solidifies Paul’s resolve to seek justice, even against his own family.
By the end of the book, Paul’s a completely different person. He understands himself, knows his worth, and isn’t afraid to challenge the lies that have defined his life. This evolution wouldn’t have been possible without those crucial relationships that helped him see himself clearly.
Erik Fisher: The Corrosive Effects of Deceit
Then there’s Erik. While Paul’s on this upward trajectory, Erik’s story is a cautionary tale. He is outwardly successful with his charming facade but inward is a moral depravity that corrodes every relationship he is in. His relationship with his father fuels his ego, making him into an egomaniac. His relationship with Arthur Bauer creates a sense of impunity, making him feel untouchable. In the end, Eric is not redeemed, but his behavior is exposed and held accountable.
The Ripple Effect on Others
And what about the other characters? Mrs. Fisher transforms from an anxious mother into a proactive truth-seeker. She begins to see the cracks in her family and take an active role in changing it. Mr. Fisher goes from a football-obsessed dad to an understanding father who starts to see his son for who he is.
These relationships shape the novel’s central themes of family, identity, justice, and truth. Paul’s journey is about discovering his true identity, while Erik’s highlights the destructive nature of lies and the importance of justice. The Fisher family’s struggles force them to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and each other. “Tangerine” shows us that the connections we make and the choices we make within those relationships ultimately define who we become.
Unmasking the Truth: How Relationships Expose Hidden Realities
Tangerine isn’t just about sinkholes and citrus; it’s a masterclass in how relationships can peel back the layers of lies and reveal the raw, sometimes ugly, truth underneath. Think of it as an onion – the more you peel (or, in this case, the more Paul interacts with others), the more likely you are to cry… or, you know, uncover some shocking family secrets. The connections Paul makes, both good and bad, are the key to unlocking the hidden realities within his family and the Tangerine community.
Paul’s journey is essentially a truth-seeking mission fueled by his interactions. Each relationship acts as a clue, a breadcrumb on the trail to understanding why his life is the way it is. Consider his relationship with his parents, particularly his dad. At first, Paul sees him as just another person obsessed with Erik’s football glory. But as Paul forms friendships and begins to understand the dynamics of Tangerine, he starts to see the deeper, more troubling reasons behind his father’s tunnel vision.
And, of course, there’s Erik. For years, Paul has been living under the shadow of his brother’s seemingly perfect image. But through interactions with characters like Joey Costello and the Cruz brothers, the carefully constructed facade begins to crumble. Paul witnesses Erik’s manipulative nature firsthand and hears stories that challenge everything he thought he knew. It’s through these relationships that Paul pieces together the truth about Erik’s actions and the devastating impact they’ve had on his life. It’s like watching a house of cards collapse, and each relationship is one less card that’s supporting the structure. The unmasking of Erik is a key theme here.
What narrative roles do the characters fulfill in “Tangerine”?
In “Tangerine,” Paul Fisher is the protagonist, and he experiences significant character development. His visual impairment shapes Paul’s perspective, influencing his interactions. Erik Fisher is the antagonist, and he perpetrates harmful actions throughout the story. Erik’s narcissistic personality drives his cruel behavior, creating conflict. Mrs. Fisher is a dynamic character, and she adapts to the challenges within her family. Her evolving understanding influences her decisions, affecting the plot. Mr. Fisher is a static character, and he remains focused on Erik’s football career. His unwavering support reinforces Erik’s negative behavior, adding tension.
How do the characters’ actions reflect the themes of “Tangerine”?
Paul’s actions demonstrate resilience, and he confronts adversity with determination. His courage exemplifies the theme of overcoming obstacles, driving the narrative. Erik’s actions embody deceit, and he manipulates situations for personal gain. His dishonesty highlights the theme of moral corruption, creating conflict. Joey Costello’s actions reveal friendship, and he supports Paul during difficult times. His loyalty reinforces the theme of camaraderie, adding emotional depth. Tino Cruz’s actions represent loyalty, and he defends his friends and family. His dedication emphasizes the theme of community, enriching the story.
What motivates the characters’ decisions in “Tangerine”?
Paul’s motivation stems from self-discovery, and he seeks truth about his past. His quest influences his choices, driving the plot forward. Erik’s motivation involves maintaining control, and he manipulates others to achieve his goals. His desire shapes his actions, creating tension. Mrs. Fisher’s motivation centers on protecting her family, and she makes difficult decisions to ensure their safety. Her maternal instinct affects her behavior, adding complexity. Mr. Fisher’s motivation revolves around Erik’s success, and he prioritizes Erik’s athletic achievements. His ambition clouds his judgment, influencing the narrative.
How do the characters contribute to the overall message of “Tangerine”?
Paul’s experiences highlight growth, and he learns to assert his identity. His journey underscores the message of self-acceptance, resonating with readers. Erik’s actions exemplify consequences, and he faces repercussions for his misdeeds. His downfall reinforces the message of accountability, providing a moral lesson. The Fisher family’s dynamics reflect dysfunction, and they struggle with communication and honesty. Their challenges emphasize the message of family relationships, adding realism. The supporting characters’ interactions demonstrate community, and they support each other through adversity. Their unity highlights the message of solidarity, enriching the story’s impact.
So, there you have it – a little dive into the vibrant world of Tangerine’s characters. Hopefully, this has sparked some interest or maybe even encouraged you to pick up the book again. Happy reading!