Surviving the Applewhites

Explore the role of creativity in the characters’ journeys of self-discovery and personal growth.

Investigate the use of humor in the novel. How does the author balance lighthearted moments with more serious themes, and what effect does this have on young readers?

How do characters like Jake and E.D. navigate their identities within the context of family and community?

Reflect on the title of the novel, Surviving the Applewhites. How does this title encapsulate the central themes and conflicts explored throughout the story?

Consider the impact of Jake’s arrival on the dynamics of the Applewhite family. How does his presence challenge and reshape the family’s relationships?

How does the setting of the novel contribute to the atmosphere of the story?

How do the challenges faced by Jake and E.D. in the novel reflect the universal experiences of adolescence?

How does the portrayal of individuality and conformity in the novel reflect broader cultural or societal attitudes?