The Chocolate War

You are about the read one of the most controversial young adult novels of all time. After suffering rejection from seven major publishers, The Chocolate War made its debut in 1974, and quickly became a bestselling—and provocative—classic for young adults. This chilling story of an all-boys prep school brings to light the issues conformity and corruption in our most elite cultural institutions.

Would you imagine refusing to sell choclates in a school fundraiser could cost you your peace of mind, even your life?  The main character Jerry Renault, the new kid at school, just lost his mom and his timid father has never "dared disturb the universive." [T.S. Eliot]  Jerry will ultimately make a choice that threatens to take the whole school apart.  To some, Jerry is a hero; to others, he's a target for their frustrations and anger.

This book was so controversial that it incited violent protests from some schools, teachers, librarians, and parents for its supposedly pessimistic portrayal of life, its sexual imagery, and its violence.

In this unit you will read background information about the banning of the book, The Chocolate War.  You will read the novel and complete tasks along the way.  The journey will take you through all the issues that led to the banning of this novel.