Apples for the Wild Stallion has never sold the way I have thought it should. I think it’s one of the most important works I’ve written. I asked AI to write an essay about the novel.
In his 2021 novel
Apples for the Wild Stallion, author Thomas Davis explores the transformative power of connection between a neurodivergent youth and the natural world.
The Catalyst of Change
The story follows Austin, a 15-year-old with nonverbal autism who relies on an iPad for communication and finds security in a rigid, predictable routine. His world is disrupted when a wild stallion appears outside his window in the New Mexico Zuni Mountains. This “mystical” connection to the stallion serves as a catalyst, prompting Austin to push beyond his previous boundaries—enabling him to make eye contact with others and develop new friendships.
Conflict and Heroism
The central conflict arises when criminal poachers and “thugs” threaten the stallion’s safety. Austin must overcome his personal limitations and risk his safety to protect the creature that sparked his internal growth. By leaving apples for the horse at a grandmother juniper tree, Austin builds a bridge between his structured life and the unpredictability of the wild.
Thematic Depth
Davis wrote the novel for his grandson, aiming to provide a relatable hero for children with autism. The essay’s core themes highlight:
- Neurodiversity: Validating Austin’s unique perspective and capabilities.
- Nature as a Healer: Showcasing the high desert mountains as a place for personal peace and growth.
- Agency: Demonstrating how Austin asserts his will to protect something he loves, moving from a passive observer to an active hero.
I am wondering if anyone could tell me what they think of this?
fourwindowspress 