58 pages • 1 hour read
The Chocolate War
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Book Brief
272
Novel • Fiction
Trinity School • 1970s
1974
YA
14-18 years
820L
Super Short Summary
In The Chocolate War, Jerry Renault, a freshman at Trinity Catholic High School, defies a powerful secret society called the Vigils and the acting Headmaster Brother Leon by refusing to participate in the school's annual chocolate sale, revealing the darker side of authority and conformity within the institution. The novel includes instances of bullying, psychological manipulation, and physical violence.
Dark
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Challenging
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
47,025 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier is a thought-provoking and controversial novel that tackles themes of conformity, individuality, and authority. Readers praise its intense, realistic portrayal of high school dynamics. However, some criticize its dark tone and unsettling content, finding it too bleak. Overall, it's recognized for sparking important discussions on teenage struggles.
Who Should Read The Chocolate War?
A reader who would enjoy The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier is likely a young adult interested in intense, thought-provoking literature that explores themes of power, conformity, and individuality. Fans of Lois Lowry's The Giver or S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders will appreciate its dark, confrontational narrative and complex characters.
47,025 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Archie Costello
Archie Costello
As the cunning and manipulative Assignor of The Vigils, Archie orchestrates various schemes and assignments to maintain control and influence over the student body through intimidation.
Brother Leon
Brother Leon
The acting Headmaster at Jerry's school, Brother Leon is determined to make the chocolate sale a success to secure his position permanently and uses his authority to manipulate students.
Emile Janza
Emile Janza
A student known for his aggressive and bully-like behavior, Emile is often used by Archie as a tool for intimidation and physical confrontations with other students.
Roland Goubert (The Goober)
Roland Goubert (The Goober)
Jerry's friend and football teammate, The Goober initially takes part in a Vigils' assignment that affects the school deeply and grapples with his moral stance and loyalty to Jerry.
The Vigils
The Vigils
A secret student group that uses "assignments" to maintain order and manipulate the student body, representing a significant force of tradition and power at the school.
272
Novel • Fiction
Trinity School • 1970s
1974
YA
14-18 years
820L
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