Tiger Eyes follows the format of most of Blume's novels. Written in simple prose, it is a first-person narrative that reads like a diary. The chapters are short and the characters and themes are developed through action and dialogue. As in Blume's other books, the plot explores the theme of maturity as the main character faces a challenge or tragedy. The ending does not have an obviously didactic moral or lesson, but instead reflects the protagonist's gradual understanding and growth. It is a formula that has proven to work for Blume.

Tiger Eyes is written from Davey Wexler's point of view. Instead of the usual past tense, the novel employs present tense—which is perhaps disconcerting to read but has the advantage of making the events described seem as if they are happening at that moment. The style works to bring the reader into the...