Tangerine by Edward Bloor

Paul Fisher is legally blind and an outstanding soccer goalie. He’s been told that he stared at an eclipse too long but has no memory of how his eyes were damaged. He fears his older brother Eric while their parents seem oblivious to any threat.  These contradictions pulled me right into Tangerine by Edward Bloor.

When the family moves to Florida, their new town of Tangerine adds to the mystery: the continual muck fires, disappearing koi, a student struck by lightning, and a massive sinkhole.  Paul finds his way around these hazards as he joins the soccer team at Tangerine Middle School - the school on the other side of the figurative tracks from his middle class subdivision.

Paul is a clear-sighted and honorable character surrounded by a family absorbed in their own concerns and dreams.  The mysteries and citizens of Tangerine provide a complex and rich world where Paul can seek his own place and perhaps a clearer view into his own past.

Author site: http://www.edwardbloor.net/b_tangerine.aspx

Kenny and the Dragon by Tony DiTerlizzi

Kenny is an earnest, studious young rabbit whose interest in reading and learning about the natural world isn’t always understood by his peers or his parents.  The arrival of a dragon on his family’s land provides a unexpected opportunity for Kenny to find friendship.  Unlike the legends Kenny has read, Grahame the dragon is not fierce and destructive, but interested in crème brûlée, poetry, and music.  Kenny introduces Grahame to his parents and they soon fall into a routine of delightful conversation and pleasant meals.  This peaceful friendship is interrupted when townsfolk get a glimpse of the dragon and assume that he is as vicious as the tales tell.  How will Kenny stop a mob intent on seeing a traditional knight vs. dragon battle?

Tony DiTerlizzi's web site is well worth a visit.

Teacher notes: Could be useful for talking about stereotypes or first impressions.  Or finding creative solutions to conflict.