Surviving the Applewhites

Stephanie S. Tolan is an American author of children’s and young adult fiction. She has a master’s degree in English from Purdue University and is a senior fellow at the Institute for Educational Advancement. Tolan’s extensive experience in writing for children and young adults significantly influences the tone and approach of Surviving the Applewhites. The novel maintains a tone that is both humorous and immediate, exploring concepts relevant to children and teenagers, such as self-discovery and challenges in friendship. Beyond its entertainment value, the book serves an educational and inspirational purpose, portraying the transformative journeys of Jake and E.D. These characters undergo growth and change, highlighting the profound impact of community and family on individual development.

Stephanie Tolan is also an advocate for exceptionally bright children, drawing from her own experience with her gifted son. Through this experience, she became aware of the detrimental effects of forcing children to conform to societal norms that do not align with their unique abilities and personalities. This realization sparked her advocacy, emphasizing the importance of embracing and celebrating human diversity rather than enforcing uniformity. She co-authored the award-winning nonfiction book Guiding the Gifted Child and has written extensively about the challenges faced by gifted children as they navigate their place in the world. In Surviving the Applewhites, Tolan explores the theme of Individuality Versus Conformity. E.D. is a gifted child struggling to find her place within her family. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning to embrace her unique talents and strengths. Similarly, Jake learns the significance of honoring individuality and authenticity over conformity.