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306
Novel • Fiction
Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, France • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Chocolat by Joanne Harris, set in a small French village, follows Vianne, a single mother, who opens a chocolate shop despite resistance from the local priest, Francis Reynaud. As Vianne's magical chocolates begin to transform the lives of the villagers, tensions with Reynaud escalate, ultimately leading to a confrontation between the two. The novel includes prejudices toward itinerant communities, offensive language toward Romani people, fatphobia, and domestic violence.
Fantastical
Emotional
Romantic
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
131,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Reviews for Joanne Harris's Chocolat highlight its enchanting and sensuous prose, praising the rich depiction of a small French village and its colorful characters. The story skillfully blends magic and reality, enticing readers with its charm and depth. However, some critics find the plot predictable and the portrayal of the antagonists somewhat one-dimensional. Overall, it's deemed a captivating and evocative read.
Readers who relish Chocolat by Joanne Harris typically enjoy character-driven, atmospheric tales infused with magical realism and culinary delights. Fans of Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel and Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman will find similar enchantment and charm. They often appreciate nuanced explorations of community dynamics and human relationships in picturesque settings.
131,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Francis Reynaud
The village priest who is characterized by his distrust of outsiders and self-denial. He serves as the primary antagonist to Vianne.
Vianne’s Mother
Though deceased, she remains a significant presence in Vianne's life. Known for her adventurous spirit and belief in magic, she influences Vianne's worldview and struggles.
Reynaud’s Père
The comatose former priest of the village and a father figure to Reynaud, representing the lingering influence of Catholicism.
Armande Voizin
An independent older woman living in informal housing, she has a witch-like persona and values agency and community. She forms connections across generations in the village.
Anouk and Pantoufle
Vianne’s spirited six-year-old daughter, who shares her mother’s penchant for magic and imagination. Pantoufle is Anouk’s imaginary rabbit friend.
Josephine Muscat/Bonnet
A village woman who breaks away from her abusive husband with the support of Vianne, finding new strength and independence.
Guillaume Duplessis and Charly
A timid older man with a deep bond to his dying dog, Charly. Through his relationship with Charly, he connects with the community.
Michel Roux
A Romani man from the traveling community, known for his cooking abilities and reluctance to engage with villagers due to their prejudices.
Caroline “Caro” Clairmont and Georges Clairmont
Caro is a church-going community leader known for her commitment to social conservatism. Georges is her husband, involved in business affairs in the village.
Paul-Marie Muscat
Josephine’s abusive husband, who runs a café in the village and harbors prejudice against the traveling community.
Luc Clairmont
Caro’s son and Armande's grandson, who navigates relationships between his family's conservative lifestyle and his grandmother's more liberal approach.
Joline Drou and Jeannot Drou
Joline is the local schoolteacher and a member of Caro’s clique, while Jeannot embodies childhood joy and innocence.
Julien Narcisse
A local farmer focused on his work, who is supportive of the Romani community and the village newcomers.
Zézette, Blanche, and Mahmed
Members of the traveling community moored on houseboats, friends of Roux, who share a collective lifestyle despite diverse backgrounds.
306
Novel • Fiction
Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, France • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
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