Reading worksheet for Section 1 of Flipped

Juli instantly becomes infatuated with Bryce primarily because of his appearance—his dazzling blue eyes and boyish charm captivate her. She also seems drawn to him because she believes he has a kind and innocent demeanor, which aligns with her idealized image of a perfect friend and potential companion. However, these traits reflect more of Juli’s perceptions than Bryce’s true personality, as his reluctance to engage with her and avoidance of her enthusiastic attention reveal a lack of emotional connection.

Bryce is overwhelmed and uncomfortable with Juli’s relentless pursuit. He tries to avoid her and even resorts to using Shelly to distract her, which indicates his lack of confidence in directly addressing the situation. This behavior reveals that Bryce may be passive and conflict-avoidant, preferring to escape problems rather than confront them. It also suggests a certain immaturity in handling relationships and communication.

Juli sees herself as someone who can “rescue” Bryce because she perceives him as being trapped in situations where he is either under pressure or uncomfortable. Her willingness to step in may stem from her strong sense of independence and her protective instincts. However, her perception of Bryce’s need for help could also be a projection of her desire to form a closer bond with him, whether or not he genuinely requires her intervention.

How does the author use dual perspectives in Flipped to shape the reader’s understanding of the relationship between Juli and Bryce in Chapter 1?

The author uses dual perspectives to provide contrasting views of the same events, which reveals the disconnect between Juli and Bryce’s feelings and perceptions. For example, while Juli views Bryce as charming and in need of her help, Bryce sees her as overly persistent and a source of discomfort. This technique allows readers to empathize with both characters and understand how misunderstandings and differing perspectives can shape relationships. By presenting both sides, the author encourages readers to think critically about how assumptions and communication affect the dynamics between people.