Setting: The story begins in the fictional town of Tangerine, Florida, a place known for its citrus groves and humid climate.
Characters: We are introduced to the main characters:
* Paul Fisher: A shy, introspective boy who has recently moved to Tangerine with his family. He is struggling to adjust to a new environment and feels out of place.
* Erik Fisher: Paul's older brother, a popular and athletic high school student who is initially seen as the perfect son. However, he has a secret that will impact both him and Paul.
* Arthur "Artie" Fisher: Paul and Erik's father, a businessman who is obsessed with his career and seemingly neglectful of his sons' needs.
* Gail Fisher: Paul and Erik's mother, a stay-at-home mom who appears to be trapped in a difficult marriage.
Conflict: The initial conflict is established through the following elements:
* Paul's Isolation: Paul feels alone and struggles to connect with others. He is bullied by the popular kids and feels invisible to his family.
* Erik's Secret: Erik's secret, which is not yet revealed, creates tension and suggests that things are not as they seem.
* The Fisher Family Dynamics: The Fisher family is strained by communication issues and unspoken resentments.
The Exposition Highlights:
* Paul's Sense of Displacement: The story begins with Paul feeling out of place and longing for a sense of belonging.
* The Importance of Family: The story focuses on the complex relationships within the Fisher family, hinting at potential conflicts and secrets.
* The Setting of Tangerine: The setting of Tangerine is presented as a place of both beauty and danger, suggesting that the characters' lives may be intertwined with the natural world.
Overall, the exposition of "Tangerine" sets the stage for a story about family, secrets, and finding your place in the world. It introduces the characters, establishes the initial conflict, and hints at the complex themes that will be explored throughout the novel.