Seeing Beyond the Surface: A Journey of Courage and Truth in Tangerine

In Tangerine by Edward Bloor, Paul Fisher’s world is complex and often unfair, but through his keen observational skills and resilience, he manages to carve a space for himself within it. Though legally blind, Paul “sees” more clearly than those around him—his vision penetrating the facades of people and situations that others are too willing to accept at face value. This keen perception is most evident in his relationship with his older brother Erik, a star football player whose violent tendencies go unnoticed by their parents. Paul’s ability to see the truth beneath the surface and his willingness to confront the darker sides of life and people make him a compelling and relatable protagonist. As he navigates his new life in Tangerine, Florida, Paul faces not only physical obstacles but also moral dilemmas that force him to grow in unexpected ways.

The story is framed through Paul’s journal entries, giving readers an intimate glimpse into his thoughts and emotions as he chronicles his family’s move from Houston to Tangerine. This narrative style draws readers into Paul’s world, allowing us to experience his struggles firsthand—his alienation at home, where his parents seem more focused on Erik’s success than on understanding Paul, and his initial challenges at Tangerine Middle School, where he feels out of place. Paul’s move to Tangerine becomes symbolic of his journey toward self-discovery. As he adjusts to his new environment, he begins to realize that fitting in is less about conforming to others’ expectations and more about standing firm in his values.

One of the key factors in Paul’s transformation is his involvement in soccer. On the soccer field, Paul finds comfort and a sense of belonging that starkly contrasts with his strained family relationships. Soccer becomes more than just a game for Paul; it is a symbol of control and freedom in a world where he often feels powerless. His success on the field boosts his confidence, and the friendships he forges with his teammates provide the support system he lacks at home. In particular, his bond with the students at Tangerine Middle School, whom others view as troublemakers, underscores one of the novel’s central themes: the strength found in community and the importance of looking beyond surface judgments.

As Paul becomes more integrated into life at Tangerine Middle, he uncovers dark secrets about his family and the community. These revelations force him to confront not only his brother’s cruel behavior but also the corrupt nature of the football program and the broader social dynamics in Tangerine. Paul’s ability to “see” what others refuse to acknowledge becomes a blessing and a burden as he must decide how to act on the truths he uncovers. The novel explores themes of accountability and moral courage as Paul ultimately takes a stand against the injustices he witnesses, knowing that doing so will have serious consequences.

Tangerine can be viewed as a hero’s journey wrapped in a coming-of-age sports tale. Paul’s journey is one of personal growth, transformation, and empowerment. As he faces the challenges thrown at him—whether they originate from the soccer field, his family, or the community—Paul emerges stronger, with a deeper understanding of his identity and values. The novel’s exploration of themes like justice, courage, and integrity, coupled with its vivid portrayal of Paul’s internal struggles, makes Tangerine a compelling narrative about the true perception of the world and the courage to stand up for what is right, even when others choose to ignore it.

Genre, Subjects, and Themes: Realistic Fiction; Mystery; Sports; Soccer; Family; Friendship; Florida; Disability

Quote: “But I can see. I can see everything. I can see things that mom and dad can’t. Or won’t.”

Timeless Lessons of Empathy and Identity in The Outsiders

“When I stepped out into the bright sunlight from the darkness of the movie house, I had only two things on my mind: Paul Newman and a ride home.”

The opening lines of The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton are seared into my mind forever. This iconic novel is about choosing between right and wrong, maintaining the innocence of youth or being “tough,” speaking up or remaining on the outside. Through the perspective of fourteen-year-old Ponyboy Curtis, the story captures the experiences of those who live on the margins of society, shining a light on social divides and the struggles of young people caught between different worlds.

At its heart, The Outsiders tells the story of growing up in a world that often forces youth to lose their innocence far too soon. Ponyboy, along with his Greaser friends, navigates the harsh realities of life in a rough neighborhood, where violence and survival instincts shape every day. These young characters must grapple with their identities while constantly feeling the weight of society’s judgments. The story doesn’t just focus on gang rivalry, but also delves into the emotional and psychological struggles that come with feeling like an outsider in your own world.

What makes The Outsiders so enduring is its exploration of universal themes like class conflict, identity, and belonging. The division between the Greasers, who come from the poorer parts of town, and the Socs, who are wealthy and privileged, may seem like a classic tale of social inequality. Yet, the novel’s portrayal of these divisions resonates deeply with modern audiences, reminding us that the gap between rich and poor still exists today. The pressures that these characters face—whether to conform to societal expectations, to prove themselves, or to fight against the roles assigned to them—are struggles that teenagers and adults alike can still relate to.

The novel also touches on the idea that people are more than just the labels society assigns them. While the Greasers and Socs seem like polar opposites, the characters slowly reveal layers of complexity. Hinton shows that both groups experience pain, insecurity, and the desire to be understood. In today’s world, where people are often divided by race, class, or social standing, this theme is just as relevant. The Outsiders challenges readers to see beyond stereotypes and recognize the humanity in people who might seem different at first glance.

Another reason why The Outsiders remains impactful is its timeless exploration of the search for identity. Adolescence is a time when young people question who they are and where they fit in, and Ponyboy’s journey of self-discovery is one that echoes through generations. Today, teenagers continue to face pressure to fit into certain molds, and they struggle with the same feelings of isolation and confusion that Ponyboy experiences. The novel speaks to that universal feeling of being on the outside looking in, making it relatable no matter when or where it’s read.

Ultimately, The Outsiders endures because it speaks to core truths about society and the human experience. Its messages about empathy, social inequality, and the challenges of growing up continue to resonate with readers in today’s world. Even though the story was written decades ago, its exploration of these themes feels as fresh and important now as it did then, reminding us that, despite our differences, we all share the same struggles, hopes, and dreams.

Genre, Subjects, and Themes: Realistic Fiction; Coming-of-Age; Friendship; Gangs; Society and Class; Banned Book

Quote: “It seemed funny to me that the sunset she saw from her patio and the one I saw from the back steps was the same one. Maybe the two different worlds we lived in weren’t so different. We saw the same sunset.”

Reclaiming Agency: A Fresh Twist on Cinderella in Ella Enchanted

Fairytales often take on a life of their own. They are told, retold, embellished, and upended—none quite so much as the tale of Cinderella and her Prince Charming. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine offers a fresh, magical twist on this classic story with a compelling spin that adds depth and complexity. Instead of a passive heroine waiting for her Prince Charming, Ella is a fiercely independent character cursed with a magical “gift” that forces her to obey every command, no matter how dangerous or demeaning.

This curse of obedience, bestowed upon Ella at birth by a misguided fairy, becomes the central conflict in her life. Whenever she tries to resist a command, she is overwhelmed with debilitating dizziness and nausea, making disobedience physically impossible. What might seem like a simple fairy tale spell turns Ella’s life into a series of difficult and often dangerous challenges. Despite this, Ella remains strong-willed, witty, and determined to break free from the enchantment that controls her.

The novel follows Ella’s adventurous journey to find the fairy godmother who cursed her in hopes of reversing the spell. Along the way, she faces devilish peers, fiendish ogres, and her cold, apathetic father. Yet she also encounters delightful elves, friendly giants, and the charming Prince Char, who becomes both a friend and a romantic interest. Ella’s relationships are multifaceted and help her navigate not just her physical challenges but also her emotional growth, allowing the reader to see her resilience and independence take center stage.

Beyond its action-packed plot, Ella Enchanted weaves in significant themes that resonate with readers of all ages. Ella’s struggle with obedience becomes a metaphor for reclaiming personal agency and autonomy, especially in a world that tries to dictate her every move. Her journey is as much about breaking free from the external forces that control her as it is about navigating the complexities of growing up—facing loss, complex family dynamics, and the highs and lows of first love. Ella’s internal and external struggles mirror each other, offering a layered narrative that goes beyond the typical fairytale formula.

In addition to the engaging plot and character development, Levine’s fantastical world is rich and immersive, filled with vibrant settings and colorful characters. From the whimsical creatures Ella meets to the richly detailed landscapes she traverses, readers are drawn into a magical world that feels familiar and refreshingly new. At its heart, Ella Enchanted is a story about empowerment—about overcoming limitations, defying expectations, and shaping one’s own destiny. Levine takes the Cinderella story we all know and gives it new life, offering readers an inspiring tale of courage, self-determination, and love.

Genre, Subjects, and Themes: Fantasy Fiction; Coming-of-Age; Friendship; Fairytale; Middle-Grade; Romance; Magic

Quote: “It is helpful to know the proper way to behave, so one can decide whether or not to be proper.”