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
272
Novel • Fiction
Trinity School • 1970s
1974
YA
14-18 years
820L
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