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Applewhites #2
Applewhites at Wit's End
Jack Semple and E.D. Applewhite are back, in this middle-grade sequel to Stephanie S. Tolan’s Newbery Honor Book Surviving the Applewhites . Teenager E.D., the not so artistic, not at all eccentric member of the unconventional Applewhite clan, can't believe the plan her father has hatched to save the family from financial disaster. He’s decided to transform their rural North Carolina farm into a summer camp for creative children. Soon the farm is packed with temperamental artists, out-of-control campers, and an even more out-of-control goat. It's all a little too much for structure-loving E.D., even before threatening notes begin appearing in the family mailbox. Together with Jake Semple--the boy who survived his first year in the Applewhites' home school—she's determined to save the camp and the family from disaster. Like Carl Hiassan’s Chomp , Applewhites at Wit's End combines outrageous humor and the frustrations and joys of being part of a family.
288 pages, Paperback
First published May 8, 2012
26 people are currently reading
878 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie S. Tolan
40 books96 followersStephanie S. Tolan's earliest memories involve books. Those that were read to her and those she read to herself, often late at night with a flashlight under the covers. She always thought there was a special magic in the little black marks on paper that could turn into whole worlds and real people. Born in Ohio and raised in Wisconsin, she wrote her first story in the fourth grade. It was thrilling to discover she could make the magic herself, and she decided then and there to be a writer.
Other ambitions came and went, but writing stayed on, and she majored in creative writing at Purdue University, then went on to a Master's Degree in English. Marriage and the sudden addition to her life of three young stepsons, and then a son, forced writing into the nooks and crannies, but she wrote poetry and plays for adults as she taught college English. In the mid-seventies, Stephanie began working in the Poets-in-the-Schools program in Pennsylvania. Her first group of students were fourth and fifth graders, and she found among them a new generation of intense readers, still using the flashlight-under-the-covers trick.
The difference, she felt, was less in the children themselves than in the fast-changing world they lived in. Her writing for children and young adults, beginning with Grandpa -- And Me in 1978, has reflected that contemporary world.
Stephanie Tolan is also well known as an advocate for extremely bright children. She co-authored the award-winning nonfiction book, Guiding the Gifted Child, and has written many articles about the challenges gifted "asynchronous" children and adults face as they find a way to fit into their world. She lectures throughout the country to audiences of parents, educators and counselors attempting to find ways to meet the children's needs. Her experiences with these "amazing, off-the-charts" young people inspired the themes of Welcome to the Ark, a powerful novel about four brilliant young misfits in a world teetering on destruction.
Stephanie Tolan currently lives in Charlotte, NC, with her husband.
Other ambitions came and went, but writing stayed on, and she majored in creative writing at Purdue University, then went on to a Master's Degree in English. Marriage and the sudden addition to her life of three young stepsons, and then a son, forced writing into the nooks and crannies, but she wrote poetry and plays for adults as she taught college English. In the mid-seventies, Stephanie began working in the Poets-in-the-Schools program in Pennsylvania. Her first group of students were fourth and fifth graders, and she found among them a new generation of intense readers, still using the flashlight-under-the-covers trick.
"They brought back to me that special reading joy that most adults, even the readers among us, have lost, and I wanted to try my hand at writing for those kids, so like myself at their age and yet so different."
The difference, she felt, was less in the children themselves than in the fast-changing world they lived in. Her writing for children and young adults, beginning with Grandpa -- And Me in 1978, has reflected that contemporary world.
Stephanie Tolan is also well known as an advocate for extremely bright children. She co-authored the award-winning nonfiction book, Guiding the Gifted Child, and has written many articles about the challenges gifted "asynchronous" children and adults face as they find a way to fit into their world. She lectures throughout the country to audiences of parents, educators and counselors attempting to find ways to meet the children's needs. Her experiences with these "amazing, off-the-charts" young people inspired the themes of Welcome to the Ark, a powerful novel about four brilliant young misfits in a world teetering on destruction.
Stephanie Tolan currently lives in Charlotte, NC, with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
August 10, 2021
Scribd.com English text, and translation for Portuguese + audio in English from Google Translate.
Synopsys: "Jack Semple and E.D. Applewhite are back, in this middle-grade sequel to Stephanie S. Tolan’s Newbery Honor Book Surviving the Applewhites. Teenager E.D., the not so artistic, not at all eccentric member of the unconventional Applewhite clan, can't believe the plan her father has hatched to save the family from financial disaster. He’s decided to transform their rural North Carolina farm into a summer camp for creative children.
Soon the farm is packed with temperamental artists, out-of-control campers, and an even more out-of-control goat. It's all a little too much for structure-loving E.D., even before threatening notes begin appearing in the family mailbox. Together with Jake Semple--the boy who survived his first year in the Applewhites' home school—she's determined to save the camp and the family from disaster."
Synopsys: "Jack Semple and E.D. Applewhite are back, in this middle-grade sequel to Stephanie S. Tolan’s Newbery Honor Book Surviving the Applewhites. Teenager E.D., the not so artistic, not at all eccentric member of the unconventional Applewhite clan, can't believe the plan her father has hatched to save the family from financial disaster. He’s decided to transform their rural North Carolina farm into a summer camp for creative children.
Soon the farm is packed with temperamental artists, out-of-control campers, and an even more out-of-control goat. It's all a little too much for structure-loving E.D., even before threatening notes begin appearing in the family mailbox. Together with Jake Semple--the boy who survived his first year in the Applewhites' home school—she's determined to save the camp and the family from disaster."
February 20, 2015
I won Applewhites at Wit's End as a LibraryThing Member Giveaway – and for that I have to thank them, because I enjoyed it thoroughly. It's yet another YA novel I wish had been around when I belonged to the targeted audience – it would have been an annual read.
Wit's End is – well, it sounds like heaven, in its way. It is a 16-acre former motor lodge which has been turned into a creative compound reigned over by the massively talented Applewhite clan. Clan in the classic sense: the extended family lives and works here, and the tale of how that came about is apparently told in the first book, which I will have to look for soon. All of the arts are represented here, from sculpture to dance to theatre to literature – and so, when disaster strikes and money is suddenly short, the idea evolves that all this talent should be put to a new use: the complex will be converted into a summer arts camp, and all those fees from the dozens and dozens of kids whose parents will surely send them to take advantage of training by famous artists – surely this will solve all the Applewhite money problems.
It doesn't quite work out that way – which may be just as well, given the group's difficulties in handling the six precocious campers who do arrive.
The ensuing mess allows the kids to step up and save the day without the adults being reduced to – quite – morons or absentees. I think my only possible complaint about the book is that it falls into the habit of stereotyping creative folk as impractical and lacking in common sense; the only one of the Applewhites with any sense at all seems to be E.D., who has little or no creativity. The use of the stereotype is regrettable, I think – it seems to support the idea that it's very rare to be both "artsy" and sensible, and as an art school survivor who looks askance at everyone else's madness on a daily basis … well, it's more like just being sensible is rare, actually.
The attractions of the book are many for a kid like I was. As I mentioned, the concept of a self-contained world filled with all sorts of creativity, adults always ready to instruct and guide and encourage whatever ideas would crop up. Room, and company if you wanted it and privacy if you didn't, animals and the sort of private wilderness Anne Shirley made me crave – it's wonderful. The practical part of me would have bonded with E.D., who is a lovely character; there's always a part of me that itches to take charge when things aren't being done right, just as she has to do. And I loved the fact that there is an element of spite in her, which prompts her to keep a rather important piece of information to herself rather than passing it on to the relief of her father, whose fault the whole mess was. It's indicative of the tone of the book as a whole – funny, smart, and a tad bit irreverent. And fantastic.
Wit's End is – well, it sounds like heaven, in its way. It is a 16-acre former motor lodge which has been turned into a creative compound reigned over by the massively talented Applewhite clan. Clan in the classic sense: the extended family lives and works here, and the tale of how that came about is apparently told in the first book, which I will have to look for soon. All of the arts are represented here, from sculpture to dance to theatre to literature – and so, when disaster strikes and money is suddenly short, the idea evolves that all this talent should be put to a new use: the complex will be converted into a summer arts camp, and all those fees from the dozens and dozens of kids whose parents will surely send them to take advantage of training by famous artists – surely this will solve all the Applewhite money problems.
It doesn't quite work out that way – which may be just as well, given the group's difficulties in handling the six precocious campers who do arrive.
The ensuing mess allows the kids to step up and save the day without the adults being reduced to – quite – morons or absentees. I think my only possible complaint about the book is that it falls into the habit of stereotyping creative folk as impractical and lacking in common sense; the only one of the Applewhites with any sense at all seems to be E.D., who has little or no creativity. The use of the stereotype is regrettable, I think – it seems to support the idea that it's very rare to be both "artsy" and sensible, and as an art school survivor who looks askance at everyone else's madness on a daily basis … well, it's more like just being sensible is rare, actually.
The attractions of the book are many for a kid like I was. As I mentioned, the concept of a self-contained world filled with all sorts of creativity, adults always ready to instruct and guide and encourage whatever ideas would crop up. Room, and company if you wanted it and privacy if you didn't, animals and the sort of private wilderness Anne Shirley made me crave – it's wonderful. The practical part of me would have bonded with E.D., who is a lovely character; there's always a part of me that itches to take charge when things aren't being done right, just as she has to do. And I loved the fact that there is an element of spite in her, which prompts her to keep a rather important piece of information to herself rather than passing it on to the relief of her father, whose fault the whole mess was. It's indicative of the tone of the book as a whole – funny, smart, and a tad bit irreverent. And fantastic.
August 9, 2018
My rating - 3.5 stars!
This was a fun, cute read! I found it in our library stack, (I think my sister got it) and thought I'd give it a try. It was very interesting, though a little predictable at times ;)
There were a few things that bothered me. The main characters were not Christians so there was one instance of taking the Lord's name in vain. Also Oh and their parrot was constantly cursing. It didn't say what he was saying though ;)
I loved that there were twins in this book! How fun!
I also kinda feel that the kids skills were a little unrealistic and exaggerated. Like when Samantha painted the side of the barn...
Destiny was so cute! I loved how he talked (so talkative XD just like my little brother ;) )
So yeah! Fun read! My rating is 3.5 stars. :)
(also I have not read the first of this series. Whoops! :P)
This was a fun, cute read! I found it in our library stack, (I think my sister got it) and thought I'd give it a try. It was very interesting, though a little predictable at times ;)
There were a few things that bothered me. The main characters were not Christians so there was one instance of taking the Lord's name in vain. Also Oh and their parrot was constantly cursing. It didn't say what he was saying though ;)
I loved that there were twins in this book! How fun!
I also kinda feel that the kids skills were a little unrealistic and exaggerated. Like when Samantha painted the side of the barn...
Destiny was so cute! I loved how he talked (so talkative XD just like my little brother ;) )
So yeah! Fun read! My rating is 3.5 stars. :)
(also I have not read the first of this series. Whoops! :P)
July 14, 2014
We all have those books that helped define who we were growing up. We tend to remember which picture book we enjoyed the most when we were being tucked into bed at night. We remember the first real chapter book we ever read, over and over praising ourselves for the big step we were taking from books with pictures to book with purely words. And, eventually, we remember those books that helped to shape us into the individuals we are today. Growing up, I read Surviving the Applewhites when I was in the seventh grade – admittedly, a little older than the intended age group. But I fell in love with the eclectic and artistic family nonetheless. As a child who spent most of her time with her nose in a book and a writing tablet at my side, I could relate to the strange family found a camaraderie in the main character, E.D. Applewhite, who was trying to find her place in the world at the same time I was. I admired the characters, the plot, the book as a whole and especially the theme – that everyone is valuable, no matter what given talents they have. It has a permanent place on my bookshelf. So – ten years later – when I see that Stephanie S. Tolan has written a sequel, I could hardly contain my glee.
Originally, I thought I would be fairly biased when it came to reviewing this book. In fact, I hadn’t even intended to leave a review, but when I finished the book, I felt compelled to share my experience. The plot of the sequel involves the Applewhite family – after having found out that most of their money had been squandered – decided to open an arts camp for gifted children to help pay for the expenses of keeping up with the family home, called Wit’s End. Eventually, six children show up for the camp – all as different from each other as the Applewhite family itself. E.D. helps to coordinate camp activities as the rest of the family engages the campers in artistic workshops. There are several misadventures along the way, and the camp – Called Eureka! – doesn’t remain operating as smoothly as intended for very long. Not but a few weeks after opening, the family starts to receive threatening letters in the mail about camping regulations and threats to shut the camp down. In addition, there is a shady character walking around the sixteen acre grounds. I won’t reveal too much more, as the bulk of the book involves the family dealing with these catastrophes in a way in which the Applewhites can.
I loved getting the opportunity to be reintroduced to the family. The characters that I had grown to love in the first book are back with their usual spunk and even the bad-boy Jake kept me grinning from the first page to the last. But, as often happens in sequels, I feel the second book doesn’t hold up nearly as well as the first. (And, granted, there were problems with the first book that I chose to overlook, as I had been thirteen when I read it.) Many of the campers that were introduced in this book were cut-out characters that we really didn’t get to know very well. This, of course, is problematic if the bulk of the story is focused on the campers. I felt that if the book were a bit longer – and if the author could have focused some more on these new characters – the book would have been a good deal stronger. Also, the ending of the story felt entirely rushed to me. The first ninety percent of the book led up to the climax, which was resolved within ten pages. I felt that it could have been fleshed out a great deal more. And, in addition to that, we don’t know how the rest of the camp turns out, as she abruptly ends the book after the family decides to put on an end-of-camp production and show detailing all the hard work the campers had done. I do, however, approve of the final scene. But I won’t reveal TOO much about that.
Overall, this book was fun, easy read that I enjoyed. Anyone who has read the first one will love to meet the family again, but don’t expect the story to shine a light to the first.
Originally, I thought I would be fairly biased when it came to reviewing this book. In fact, I hadn’t even intended to leave a review, but when I finished the book, I felt compelled to share my experience. The plot of the sequel involves the Applewhite family – after having found out that most of their money had been squandered – decided to open an arts camp for gifted children to help pay for the expenses of keeping up with the family home, called Wit’s End. Eventually, six children show up for the camp – all as different from each other as the Applewhite family itself. E.D. helps to coordinate camp activities as the rest of the family engages the campers in artistic workshops. There are several misadventures along the way, and the camp – Called Eureka! – doesn’t remain operating as smoothly as intended for very long. Not but a few weeks after opening, the family starts to receive threatening letters in the mail about camping regulations and threats to shut the camp down. In addition, there is a shady character walking around the sixteen acre grounds. I won’t reveal too much more, as the bulk of the book involves the family dealing with these catastrophes in a way in which the Applewhites can.
I loved getting the opportunity to be reintroduced to the family. The characters that I had grown to love in the first book are back with their usual spunk and even the bad-boy Jake kept me grinning from the first page to the last. But, as often happens in sequels, I feel the second book doesn’t hold up nearly as well as the first. (And, granted, there were problems with the first book that I chose to overlook, as I had been thirteen when I read it.) Many of the campers that were introduced in this book were cut-out characters that we really didn’t get to know very well. This, of course, is problematic if the bulk of the story is focused on the campers. I felt that if the book were a bit longer – and if the author could have focused some more on these new characters – the book would have been a good deal stronger. Also, the ending of the story felt entirely rushed to me. The first ninety percent of the book led up to the climax, which was resolved within ten pages. I felt that it could have been fleshed out a great deal more. And, in addition to that, we don’t know how the rest of the camp turns out, as she abruptly ends the book after the family decides to put on an end-of-camp production and show detailing all the hard work the campers had done. I do, however, approve of the final scene. But I won’t reveal TOO much about that.
Overall, this book was fun, easy read that I enjoyed. Anyone who has read the first one will love to meet the family again, but don’t expect the story to shine a light to the first.
May 13, 2014
I am currently reading Applewhites at Wit's End by Stephanie S. Tolan. This book is the sequel to Surviving the Applewhites. In the book, the very talented Applewhite family is going on broke. To save their beloved property, Wit's End, the Applewhites decide to have a summer camp to raise money. I really like the youngest Applewhite, Destiny, because he's very funny. I remember driving by a ranch around Kingsville, Texas, that sounds a lot like Wit's End. They both have really cool ponds. I was surprised when Randolph Applewhite came up with the summer camp idea because I have noticed that he normally is very negative about bad situations until the rest of his family helps him out. I was excited when the campers arrived because the Applewhites had been working so hard. Overall, I think Tolan did a great job writing the book!
May 18, 2015
I just was NOT into this sequel. It had none of the first book's charm for me, which is too bad because it's about many things I love in life like theatre, music, art, etc. I was just bored, but since there were Sound of Music references, I couldn't just give it one star. Probably my biggest issue is that the author makes Destiny talk like a baby through the whole thing. What 5-year-old really talks like that??
January 24, 2019
I was excited to find out there was a sequel to Surviving the Applewhites, yes I want more madcap adventures of the Applewhites! This book was a fun sequel with the family setting up a summer camp because they need money. Really enjoyed.
March 25, 2018
3.5 stars
Not nearly as good as the first book, but still entertaining. The characters felt a little forced.
Not nearly as good as the first book, but still entertaining. The characters felt a little forced.
September 4, 2020
Very funny, quirky family; very funny situations; adorable 5-year old says the darndest things.
May 9, 2021
It was engaging. It has been a long time since I finished a book so I decided to go for something light and funny this time. I enjoyed reading the book, esp. as it has a good blend of painting a picture without sounding forced.
April 26, 2015
Review by Karen, intended for young readers:
Applewhites at Wit’s End by Stephanie S. Tolan is the sequel to Surviving the Applewhites. If you’ve read the first book, then you know that the Applewhites are an eccentric family of artists living out in the country where they can do their furniture design, sculpture, writing, dancing, acting, directing, and singing without being bothered by anyone else. They are a bold and colorful group, not to be contained by anyone else’s rules.
In the first book, they get a new addition: Jake, a juvenile delinquent who isn’t very happy to be there. And E.D., the only non-artist in the family is less than thrilled with his presence too. But as you can guess, Jake finds a way to fit in by the end of the story. I won’t tell you how because you should read the book yourself!
But even if you don’t read Surviving the Applewhites, you can still read Applewhites at Wit’s End. Jake’s integration into the family is no longer an issue; now the whole Applewhite clan has a real problem: After their accountant steals all of their money, their way of life is in danger!
No one wants to sell the house and land and move to the suburbs (yuck), so they come up with a risky plan to open up a summer camp for artistic kids.
What happens when two of the campers won’t stop fighting with each other, one of the campers regularly threatens to leave, and all of the campers stage a protest over living conditions and the camp schedule? Not to mention, a mysterious man in a mysterious black car keeps showing up and then racing away…
The Applewhites have a challenge on their hands, but if anyone can find a creative solution to overcome any obstacle, it’s this family of artists. And especially with E.D. and Jake on the case, no mysterious man or any other force (human or supernatural) is going to stop this camp from finishing out the summer.
I recommend this book if you are longing for a summer story, or even if you’re not. Any time of year, you’ll find yourself drawn into the lively antics of this big, crazy family. I just wish I could visit them in real life!
This review also appears on Kidsmomo.com.
Applewhites at Wit’s End by Stephanie S. Tolan is the sequel to Surviving the Applewhites. If you’ve read the first book, then you know that the Applewhites are an eccentric family of artists living out in the country where they can do their furniture design, sculpture, writing, dancing, acting, directing, and singing without being bothered by anyone else. They are a bold and colorful group, not to be contained by anyone else’s rules.
In the first book, they get a new addition: Jake, a juvenile delinquent who isn’t very happy to be there. And E.D., the only non-artist in the family is less than thrilled with his presence too. But as you can guess, Jake finds a way to fit in by the end of the story. I won’t tell you how because you should read the book yourself!
But even if you don’t read Surviving the Applewhites, you can still read Applewhites at Wit’s End. Jake’s integration into the family is no longer an issue; now the whole Applewhite clan has a real problem: After their accountant steals all of their money, their way of life is in danger!
No one wants to sell the house and land and move to the suburbs (yuck), so they come up with a risky plan to open up a summer camp for artistic kids.
What happens when two of the campers won’t stop fighting with each other, one of the campers regularly threatens to leave, and all of the campers stage a protest over living conditions and the camp schedule? Not to mention, a mysterious man in a mysterious black car keeps showing up and then racing away…
The Applewhites have a challenge on their hands, but if anyone can find a creative solution to overcome any obstacle, it’s this family of artists. And especially with E.D. and Jake on the case, no mysterious man or any other force (human or supernatural) is going to stop this camp from finishing out the summer.
I recommend this book if you are longing for a summer story, or even if you’re not. Any time of year, you’ll find yourself drawn into the lively antics of this big, crazy family. I just wish I could visit them in real life!
This review also appears on Kidsmomo.com.
June 9, 2012
The first thought that comes to mind after finishing the novel..."Yay!!"
The story starts with the Applewhites in danger of losing their home due to financial strains. So to solve their money problem, E.D.'s father, Randolph Applewhite, comes up with a plan to save their property...by starting a creative kids summer camp where kids will learn singing, dancing, painting, woodworking and sculpturing. Things get off to a rocky start. Campers want to go home and no one is getting along. Then a man in a suit toting a clipboard appear on the Applewhite property, seemly to take notes for the North Carolina government while strange letters come daily in the mail and E.D. realizes all is not as it seems. As E.D. uncovers the truth behind the supposed government agent and the taunting letters, Jake has figured out a way to rally the campers to a universal cause to help keep the government from shutting down their beloved camp. And through it all, each camper learns and grows in their area of expertise while getting to know each other and realizing that working in a team is always better than working alone.
What I Liked: The novel starts with a dysfunctional, yet happy family, who pull together during tough times in order to help the family as a whole. I liked that the story began with a hyper, creative atmosphere, then ends on the same note. I also really enjoyed the way Ms. Tolan showcased how each individual camper grew through their experiences, especially Ginger's last poem, which could easily be printed in a poetry book. Each camper also had very distinct personalities that were wonderful and make readers feel that these characters can indeed be real people.
What I Didn't Like: The only thing that I thought needed more explanation was E.D.'s ended fascination with David. Perhaps the reason why no explanation was given was because Ms. Tolan wanted readers to feel that E.D.'s feelings had slowly waned. Other than that, it was a really good read!
I received this novel from Librarything.com Early Reviewer program.
The story starts with the Applewhites in danger of losing their home due to financial strains. So to solve their money problem, E.D.'s father, Randolph Applewhite, comes up with a plan to save their property...by starting a creative kids summer camp where kids will learn singing, dancing, painting, woodworking and sculpturing. Things get off to a rocky start. Campers want to go home and no one is getting along. Then a man in a suit toting a clipboard appear on the Applewhite property, seemly to take notes for the North Carolina government while strange letters come daily in the mail and E.D. realizes all is not as it seems. As E.D. uncovers the truth behind the supposed government agent and the taunting letters, Jake has figured out a way to rally the campers to a universal cause to help keep the government from shutting down their beloved camp. And through it all, each camper learns and grows in their area of expertise while getting to know each other and realizing that working in a team is always better than working alone.
What I Liked: The novel starts with a dysfunctional, yet happy family, who pull together during tough times in order to help the family as a whole. I liked that the story began with a hyper, creative atmosphere, then ends on the same note. I also really enjoyed the way Ms. Tolan showcased how each individual camper grew through their experiences, especially Ginger's last poem, which could easily be printed in a poetry book. Each camper also had very distinct personalities that were wonderful and make readers feel that these characters can indeed be real people.
What I Didn't Like: The only thing that I thought needed more explanation was E.D.'s ended fascination with David. Perhaps the reason why no explanation was given was because Ms. Tolan wanted readers to feel that E.D.'s feelings had slowly waned. Other than that, it was a really good read!
I received this novel from Librarything.com Early Reviewer program.
February 13, 2012
You can think of it as the jumbo-sized version of "let's put on a play and save the old school" -- let's put on a summer camp and save our family homestead! As Applewhites at Wit's End opens, the Applewhite clan -- a three-generation collective of creative types, all but one of whom are family members -- have lost all of their money due to accounting fraud, and are in danger of losing Wit's End, their combination home/studio/playhouse, which they've built from an abandoned motor lodge. In order to raise the required money, they hit on the idea of running a summer camp for creative children, even though none of them have any experience at all in doing so.
It's all a setup for a warmhearted and terrifically funny excursion, seen alternately through the eyes of E.D., a 13-year-old girl who's the only one of the Applewhites without a creative talent, and Jake, a teen with a troubled past whose luck and outlook have changed since being taken in by the Applewhites. The book works as an ensemble comedy, a paean to creativity, and even as a bit of a mystery story. The setting and references are firmly present-day, but in its spirit and tone, it reminded me of a lost classic from the past, something that would sit comfortably on a shelf alongside Pippi Longstocking, Ginger Pye, and The Story Girl. It's the kind of book that I firmly believe I would have loved as a child -- and that, even as an adult, I genuinely enjoyed reading.
The novel is a sequel to Stephanie S. Tolan's 2003 Newbery Honor book Surviving the Applewhites. I haven't read that one, but I didn't find that it mattered. The tongue-in-cheek front matter, which includes a family tree and an introduction to the "cast of characters," served well enough to acquaint me with the Applewhites, and the few plot points from the earlier book that seemed to make a difference were quickly recapped in the text. At no point when reading it did I feel that it didn't stand alone.
It's all a setup for a warmhearted and terrifically funny excursion, seen alternately through the eyes of E.D., a 13-year-old girl who's the only one of the Applewhites without a creative talent, and Jake, a teen with a troubled past whose luck and outlook have changed since being taken in by the Applewhites. The book works as an ensemble comedy, a paean to creativity, and even as a bit of a mystery story. The setting and references are firmly present-day, but in its spirit and tone, it reminded me of a lost classic from the past, something that would sit comfortably on a shelf alongside Pippi Longstocking, Ginger Pye, and The Story Girl. It's the kind of book that I firmly believe I would have loved as a child -- and that, even as an adult, I genuinely enjoyed reading.
The novel is a sequel to Stephanie S. Tolan's 2003 Newbery Honor book Surviving the Applewhites. I haven't read that one, but I didn't find that it mattered. The tongue-in-cheek front matter, which includes a family tree and an introduction to the "cast of characters," served well enough to acquaint me with the Applewhites, and the few plot points from the earlier book that seemed to make a difference were quickly recapped in the text. At no point when reading it did I feel that it didn't stand alone.
October 1, 2018
Stephanie Tolan’s Applewhites at Wit’s End published in May 8, 2012 dives into the lives of the artistic family known as the Applewhites, where they are suddenly poverty stricken. In a last effort to save their home, they come up with the idea to open up a camp for creative minds. Unknown to them, a sinister plot endangers the success of the camp. After finishing the book, I was left unimpressed and disappointed by how weak the plot is.
The central conflict of the book gave it great potential, however its execution was left a lot to be desired. First off, the lack of a presence the main antagonist had throughout the story was what I disliked. If the antagonist wasn’t mentioned in the book at all, not much would have changed, besides the loss of a couple of pages from the book. I say this because the impact the antagonist aimed to inflict on the family didn’t make logical sense, as stated here, “‘The intention was to inflict psychological trauma. So she had me deliver all those messages about the state regulations day after day.’” Sure the family may feel concerned, but nothing’s actually going to happen to them when camp’s over. Also I feel like the lack of obstacles the family had to face, made the plot very uninteresting. In fact, the closest we get to having an obstacle are the lousy campers the family has to tolerate. For example, “‘They won’t go any further,’ the green twin said. ‘Well then,’ E.D said, determinedly hanging on to cheerfulness, ‘I guess you’ll just have to pick them up!”’ Overall, if the author included meaningful obstacles and a relevant antagonist, I would have given this book a higher rating.
To put it briefly, the book does its job as a sequel, but it’ll only ever be a sequel. We receive a continuation to the series, yet as a standalone book, nothing about it is remarkable. Although for what for is, I enjoyed being a part of the family's misadventures.
The central conflict of the book gave it great potential, however its execution was left a lot to be desired. First off, the lack of a presence the main antagonist had throughout the story was what I disliked. If the antagonist wasn’t mentioned in the book at all, not much would have changed, besides the loss of a couple of pages from the book. I say this because the impact the antagonist aimed to inflict on the family didn’t make logical sense, as stated here, “‘The intention was to inflict psychological trauma. So she had me deliver all those messages about the state regulations day after day.’” Sure the family may feel concerned, but nothing’s actually going to happen to them when camp’s over. Also I feel like the lack of obstacles the family had to face, made the plot very uninteresting. In fact, the closest we get to having an obstacle are the lousy campers the family has to tolerate. For example, “‘They won’t go any further,’ the green twin said. ‘Well then,’ E.D said, determinedly hanging on to cheerfulness, ‘I guess you’ll just have to pick them up!”’ Overall, if the author included meaningful obstacles and a relevant antagonist, I would have given this book a higher rating.
To put it briefly, the book does its job as a sequel, but it’ll only ever be a sequel. We receive a continuation to the series, yet as a standalone book, nothing about it is remarkable. Although for what for is, I enjoyed being a part of the family's misadventures.
February 7, 2018
Another mediocre book that just fizzled out. Apparently despite all being fairly famous artists, the clan brings in very little money (mostly just the book royalties). Why they would pool it all together in one trust is weird (considering how much they squabble and how irresponsible members are), but it starts with all the money being stolen. A crazy plan to be a summer camp is hatched, and it goes off running. Apparently they are charging so much to these students that they can pay off their mortgage? Except true to form, her asshole father rejects one of the seven applicants just because he thinks she's untalented. I guess the money must not be that important. I just can't understand why these rich parents even put their kids at this place.
The campers more or less hate the camp, until suddenly they start working together to save it. There is no reason for this, it just happens. I would also like to point out that the state would not need to make an inspection to shut them down - they are operating without a permit, so they can be shut down at any time. E.D. spends some time mooning after one of the handsome boys, then that story line just fizzles out (good thing since he's a jerk). It wasn't even that noticeable, because the author kept telling you that she liked him, but not really showing it in any way. So it was forgettable until the next time you were told that she thought he was soooo cute. Then there were weird orbs that showed up in photos - not necessary to the plot and just makes her aunt seem more kooky.
The campers more or less hate the camp, until suddenly they start working together to save it. There is no reason for this, it just happens. I would also like to point out that the state would not need to make an inspection to shut them down - they are operating without a permit, so they can be shut down at any time. E.D. spends some time mooning after one of the handsome boys, then that story line just fizzles out (good thing since he's a jerk). It wasn't even that noticeable, because the author kept telling you that she liked him, but not really showing it in any way. So it was forgettable until the next time you were told that she thought he was soooo cute. Then there were weird orbs that showed up in photos - not necessary to the plot and just makes her aunt seem more kooky.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2016
Good: excellent characterization; Well paced plot; Great feeling of setting; ; Good point worked in well; Loads of fun; Made me laugh.
Not so good: unrealistic major plot points ; Some stereotyping with secondary characters; and the whole thing about the orbs.
But I enjoyed it enough that the good outweighed the bad by far. It's a keeper, to be reread and lent out to others.
Not so good: unrealistic major plot points ; Some stereotyping with secondary characters; and the whole thing about the orbs.
But I enjoyed it enough that the good outweighed the bad by far. It's a keeper, to be reread and lent out to others.
August 8, 2012
I have taught the first book, Surviving the Applewhites, and actually find this to be a stronger book. It was nice to revisit the characters, and the children have evolved from where they were at in the first book- especially like the development of Jake and E.D.. The only thing I find frustrating while reading Applewhite books is how much I want to shake the parents! I know E.D. thrives and grows from the insane amount of responsibility she is expected to take on (in both books) but it seems like everyone else in the book is allowed to be a child, and this poor middle schooler is developing ulcers about keeping their lifestyle afloat. It is a smart move on Tolan's part to write from E.D. and Jake's perspectives, because there is an "outside looking in" quality to seeing this setup the Applewhites have arranged on their artist's commune, which makes the parents a bit easier to swallow, and E.D. an extremely sympathetic character. I loved the new characters, although a few of the campers were underdeveloped. It is definitely set up for a third book, and I hope it comes out soon!
June 19, 2018
Another fun story with the Appplewhites, a family of free spirit artists who believe in flexibility, creativity, imagination and embracing your fashions. In this sequel to the Newbery Honor winning Surviving the Appplewhites, the family runs a summer camp on their property to raise money.
Fans of families like the one found in The Lotterys Plus One or almost broke like Thea's in Under the Egg will like this one.
Fans of families like the one found in The Lotterys Plus One or almost broke like Thea's in Under the Egg will like this one.
June 20, 2018
I did not read the first book. I don't think that matters, as this seems like a stand-alone book. I made it to page 65 before I gave up. I didn't like anything about it. It's for 8-12 year olds, but it would be quite hard for most 8-10 year olds. I didn't like that it included references to alcohol and marijuana. There was no reason for it. I skimmed some of the rest of the book, and it just didn't interest me at all.
August 30, 2017
The Applewhites need to raise money quickly and they decide with all the creative people in the family the most perfect thing would be a summer arts camp.
E.D. does tons of planning which is wrecked almost immediately.
But things really do come together when everyone works as an ensemble.
E.D. does tons of planning which is wrecked almost immediately.
But things really do come together when everyone works as an ensemble.
June 26, 2019
Sort of an American Bagethorps, with a family of eccentric artists throwing a summer camp for talented kids to cover the loss of their family fortune. Shenanigans ensue. E.D., the only sensible one of the family, is our viewpoint. Fun and lighthearted.
January 14, 2020
The only reason I didn’t rate this higher is the fact that it’s middle grade and I’m no longer in that audience. However I did specifically pick this, having read it before, because I knew it would be per ever for a road trip— it was.
September 27, 2017
It wasn't bad, but the characters could be a little much sometimes. I wouldn't re-read it.
December 8, 2017
A delight to read! A book in a sequel. You will be glad you read.
January 30, 2018
Book number 98 of the school year!!
October 31, 2018
Young adult but sweet story. Only annoying thing is youngest child's manner of speaking, well, childishly, but I felt it was overdone.
September 18, 2019
Good story. Characters you know and love.
November 5, 2019
Cute for kids
February 3, 2020
This book was good, and most of my 5th graders enjoyed it, but it moved slow, especially in the beginning.
April 23, 2024
When an unscrupulous manager absconds with most of the Applewhite family fortunes, Randolph Applewhite hatches a plan to turn their finances around: hosting a summer camp for creative children. After all, their particular brand of insanity worked for Jake, who's now pretty much an honorary Applewhite. Between the lot of them, they can teach workshops in pretty much any art that kids could care to learn, and they have plenty of space in the cabins on-site (Wit's End, the Applewhite homestead, was once a motor lodge). They all dive into preparations, with E.D. coordinating schedules and everyone else planning curriculum and fixing up the property. Of course, what nobody thinks to do is arrange for permits from the state, so when a man purporting to be a state inspector shows up, everyone is thrown into a bit of a tizzy...
This is another fun foray into the world of the Applewhites. I knock off half a star for something unnecessary that happened at the very end of the book, but still, an enjoyable read for fans of the first book.
This is another fun foray into the world of the Applewhites. I knock off half a star for something unnecessary that happened at the very end of the book, but still, an enjoyable read for fans of the first book.
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