Robert Cormier's The Chocolate War is a an engaging but complex read that introduces students to a variety of topics, such as peer pressure, bullying, corruption, conformism and resistance, mob mentality, and abuse of authority. These subjects will spark class discussion and allow students to talk about serious issues in a meaningful way.
The Chocolate War includes a number of literary, historical, and religious allusions within the text, so it is important to identify and explain the significance of these references. The quotation that motivates Jerry, the main character, to rebel, "Do I dare disturb the universe?" is from T. S. Eliot's "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock." The poem can be paired with the novel, and students can discuss the shared themes of choice and manipulation.
Although the book has received much praise since its introduction, The Chocolate War has also been frequently banned or challenged for sexual content, offensive language, religious viewpoints, and violence. While the author's perspective and message demonstrate that this novel merits being taught in the classroom, students' maturity should be considered before assigning this work.
Summary
Freshman Jerry Renault attends Trinity, a Catholic high school, where he wants to fit in but is simultaneously motivated to not conform. The headmaster, Brother Leon, wants to raise school funds through chocolate sales, but The Vigils, a secret society led by the manipulative Archie Costello, tells Jerry to refuse to sell chocolates for ten days. Jerry goes along with this prank, but after the ten days pass, continues to rebel in protest. Brother Leon pressures Archie to get The Vigils to support the chocolate sales and set up Jerry as an enemy for the other students to bully.
Content Warning
The Chocolate War contains profanity, violence, and sexual references.
Movies
The Chocolate War was adapted into a movie in 1988. While the film is generally true to the novel, the ending has been changed and diverges from the novel's plot and themes. The film is R-rated, though clips may be appropriate for the classroom.