Eric Walters is a household name when it comes to middle school literature, and Bifocal, co-written with Deborah Ellis, is yet another testament to his ability to tackle important issues with nuance and authenticity. This thought-provoking novel offers a dual perspective on race, identity, and community through the eyes of two very different high school boys.
The Story: Two Boys, Two Perspectives
Bifocal begins with a shocking incident: a Muslim student at the school is arrested on accusations of terrorism. The novel unfolds through the alternating perspectives of two grade 11 students, Jay and Haroon, whose lives and viewpoints couldn’t be more different.
- Jay: A white, Christian football star, Jay embodies the archetype of the popular athlete. As a junior captain of the team, he navigates the pressure to succeed on the field while grappling with his growing awareness of the racial and cultural dynamics around him.
- Haroon: A Muslim, academic-focused student, Haroon is a self-proclaimed geek who earns a spot on the “Reach for the Top” team only after a member is removed due to the scandal. Haroon’s story highlights his struggle to define his identity amid prejudice, suspicion, and the fallout from his friend’s arrest.
Through their alternating chapters, the novel reveals how each boy processes the same events, showing how privilege, bias, and personal experience shape their perspectives. By the end, their lives intersect, sparking a candid discussion about their revelations and the changes within their school community.
Themes That Resonate
Bifocal dives deep into themes of racism, privilege, and identity, making it an invaluable resource for fostering empathy and understanding in diverse classrooms. Jay’s journey challenges him to confront his implicit biases and examine what it means to be labeled a racist, while Haroon’s story captures the emotional toll of being unfairly scrutinized because of his religion and ethnicity.
These dual narratives provide a nuanced look at the complexities of community dynamics, offering readers a chance to step into the shoes of someone with a vastly different life experience.
Why It Works in the Classroom
The language in Bifocal is accessible, and the straightforward plot makes it easy for readers to follow despite the alternating perspectives. Its structure is particularly effective for classroom discussions, as students can compare and contrast the characters’ viewpoints and explore how their individual backgrounds influence their reactions to the same events.
The book’s focus on current, real-world issues makes it an excellent choice for grades 7-11, particularly in classrooms with diverse student populations. It’s a powerful tool for encouraging discussions about cultural sensitivity, prejudice, and the importance of seeing multiple sides to every story.
Final Thoughts
Bifocal is an engaging, thought-provoking read that earns a solid 4.5/5 stars from me. Its dual narrative structure, relatable characters, and timely themes make it a valuable addition to any classroom library. Whether used for independent reading, literature circles, or as a class read-aloud, this novel is sure to spark meaningful conversations and leave a lasting impact on its readers.