Reading worksheet for Section 7 of Flipped

David is Juli's uncle, who has a developmental disability. Despite his condition, David is portrayed as a kind and innocent person who deeply enjoys simple pleasures like eating ice cream. He is a reminder of the purity and joy that can exist despite life's challenges. His character adds depth to Juli’s family and shows the loving and accepting environment in which she was raised.

Dad responds to David's excitement over ice cream with patience, warmth, and understanding. He clearly cares deeply for his brother and wants to ensure he feels loved and supported. This event highlights Dad’s compassionate and empathetic nature, as well as his dedication to his family. His response also shows the emotional toll of balancing care for David with the responsibilities of his own household.

Dad feels exhausted after the visit because of the emotional and physical energy it takes to care for David and balance his needs with those of his own family. The visit serves as a reminder of the challenges and sacrifices he has made throughout his life, which weighs heavily on him. It also reflects his deep love for David and the emotional complexity of their relationship.

How does the visit to Uncle David highlight the theme of familial responsibility and its impact on individual identity in the novel?

The visit to Uncle David emphasizes the weight of familial responsibility and how it shapes the characters’ identities, particularly Juli and her father. For Dad, caring for David reflects his unwavering loyalty and compassion, but it also reveals the emotional toll such responsibilities take. This dynamic showcases the complex interplay between duty and personal fulfillment. For Juli, the visit provides insight into her father’s sacrifices and values, influencing her own understanding of what truly matters in life. It helps her see the importance of kindness, resilience, and prioritizing deeper connections over superficial attractions, such as her initial crush on Bryce. This theme underscores how familial relationships not only bind individuals but also shape their moral compass and personal growth.