53 pages • 1 hour read
Stephanie S. TolanA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
In Surviving the Applewhites by Stephanie S. Tolan, troubled teenager Jake Semple moves in with the eccentric Applewhite family after being expelled from school, finding it difficult to adjust initially. Over time, Jake discovers his passion for theater and undergoes a transformation, while the Applewhites rally together to produce a play, ultimately teaching him the values of belonging and family. The book includes references to illegal drug use and teen rebellion.
Stephanie S. Tolan's Surviving the Applewhites garners praise for its quirky characters and humor, engagingly capturing the chaotic yet loving Applewhite family dynamic. While readers appreciate the growth of the protagonist, some find the plot predictable and character development uneven. Overall, it’s a charming, light-hearted read ideal for middle-grade audiences.
Surviving the Applewhites by Stephanie S. Tolan captivates young readers aged 8-12 who enjoy humorous, character-driven stories about self-discovery and family dynamics. Similar to Louis Sachar's Holes and Jeanne Birdsall's The Penderwicks, it appeals to fans of eccentric characters and unique adventures.
Recommended
Lexile Level
820LRealistic Fiction
Humor
Children's Literature
Relationships: Family
Life/Time: Coming of Age
Relationships: Fathers
Education