Surviving The Applewhites Character Analysis

Surviving The Applewhites is a young adult novel written by Stephanie S. Tolan. The novel revolves around the life of thirteen-year-old Jake Semple, who is sent to the chaotic Applewhite family after being expelled from various schools. The novel features a diverse array of characters, each with their own unique traits and quirks. In this essay, I will analyze the characters of the Applewhite family and their impact on Jake's development throughout the novel.

Randolph Applewhite

At the heart of the Applewhite family is Randolph, a renowned artist and an eccentric personality. Randolph is a free-spirited individual who believes in nurturing creativity and individuality. He encourages Jake to explore his artistic talents and provides him with a space to express himself. Despite his unconventional approach to parenting, Randolph is a supportive and caring father figure to Jake, offering him guidance and understanding when he needs it the most.

Sydney Applewhite

Sydney is Randolph's wife and a talented writer. She is a strong, independent woman who values her family and their artistic endeavors. Sydney is portrayed as the backbone of the Applewhite family, keeping them grounded and providing them with the support they need. She plays a crucial role in Jake's development, offering him wisdom and empathy, and teaching him the value of self-expression and creativity.

E.D. Applewhite

E.D. is the eldest child of the Applewhite family and a talented playwright. She is a confident and assertive young woman who is not afraid to speak her mind. E.D. is initially wary of Jake's presence in their home but eventually warms up to him and becomes a close friend and mentor. She encourages Jake to pursue his passion for acting and provides him with the guidance and support he needs to succeed.

Destiny Applewhite

Destiny is the youngest member of the Applewhite family and a highly spirited and imaginative child. She is portrayed as a free-spirited and creative individual who is unafraid to be herself. Destiny forms a close bond with Jake, and her vivacious personality rubs off on him, allowing him to embrace his own creativity and individuality. She serves as a source of inspiration and joy for Jake, reminding him of the beauty of childhood innocence and imagination.

Cordelia Applewhite

Cordelia is the matriarch of the Applewhite family and a no-nonsense, practical woman. She is initially skeptical of Jake's presence in their home but eventually comes to appreciate his unique qualities and the positive impact he has on the family. Cordelia's pragmatic approach to life balances out the artistic and carefree nature of the other family members, providing Jake with a sense of stability and structure.

Randolph Junior

Randolph Junior is the middle child of the Applewhite family and a talented musician. He is a reserved and introspective individual who struggles with his own insecurities and self-doubt. Despite his initial reservations about Jake, Randolph Junior forms a close bond with him and becomes a supportive friend and mentor. He encourages Jake to pursue his musical interests and provides him with the guidance and encouragement he needs to succeed.

Jake Semple

Jake Semple is the central character of the novel, a troubled teenager with a troubled past. Throughout the novel, Jake undergoes a significant transformation, thanks to the influence of the Applewhite family. He learns to embrace his artistic talents, express himself freely, and develop meaningful relationships with the family members. The Applewhite family serves as a catalyst for Jake's personal growth and development, allowing him to overcome his past and discover his true potential.

Conclusion

The Applewhite family is a diverse and dynamic group of individuals, each with their own unique qualities and contributions to Jake's development. From Randolph's nurturing and free-spirited nature to Sydney's wisdom and empathy, E.D.'s confidence and assertiveness, Destiny's creativity and imagination, Cordelia's practicality and stability, and Randolph Junior's support and mentorship, the Applewhite family plays a crucial role in Jake's journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Through their influence, Jake learns the value of creativity, individuality, and self-expression, ultimately finding a sense of belonging and purpose within the family.