The Chocolate War

Cormier, R. (1974). The Chocolate War. NY: Delacorte.

The Chocolate War inspires, enrages and in the end leaves the reader to decide what to feel about acts of rebellion in general. Protagonist Jerry Renault is a student a Trinity High School where a group of bullies, The Vigils, pretty much do what they wish with support by a teacher named Brother Leon. This group of bullies dictates “assignments” to individual students as mere entertainment. The Goober, Jerry’s friend is given an assignment to damage the desks in a classroom. After this, he is never the same. Next to receive an assignment is Jerry, which means he has to refuse to sell chocolates for a school fundraiser. The Vigils’ orders were clear that after the tenth day Jerry would decide to sell for the chocolate, but in an effort to “disturb the universe,” Jerry still refuses. This is what gives the book its title. The Vigils and Brother Leon collaborate to teach Jerry a lesson. Although Jerry fights back, literally, in the end he realizes it’s not worth trying to disturb the system. What I appreciate the most in this book is that students can, in the end, determine if Jerry’s rebellion was worth it or not. This can lead to a discussion of what it means to stand up for what you believe in, even when you know the odds are against you. Another strong point this book has is that it delineates The Vigil’s power so well by controlling the students with a fear that goes beyond bruises. Teens developing emotionally can find this book to be an interesting read and perhaps give them a reason for self-analysis.