58 pages • 1 hour read
Robert CormierThe Chocolate War
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1974A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
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.
Reviews & Readership
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.
RecommendedReading Age
14-18yearsLexile Level
820LBook Details
Realistic Fiction
Coming of Age / Bildungsroman
Education
Bullying
Education
Emotions/Behavior: Courage
Emotions/Behavior: Hate & Anger
Identity: Masculinity