Read this when
The Chocolate War
He said no to selling chocolates. The whole school came for him. 🍫 'Do I dare disturb the universe?'
Who it's for
Jerry's refusal to sell chocolates starts as an assignment and becomes a personal stand, giving readers a sharp look at how bullying works through a secret society (the Vigils), a manipulative teacher (Brother Leon) and a silent crowd.
Feelings it meets
What it is
A 1974 young adult novel by Robert Cormier, set at Trinity, a fictional Catholic boys' school. Freshman Jerry Renault refuses to sell chocolates in the school's fundraiser, a stand linked to T.S. Eliot's question about daring to disturb the universe. His refusal puts him in conflict with Brother Leon and with the Vigils, a manipulative secret society led by Archie Costello.
Where to find it
In print; widely available from libraries (Libby/Hoopla where licensed) and as an ebook and an unabridged audiobook.
Before you start
Heads up: Bullying and a brutal beating.
Age: Ages 14+
I'm Nobody! Who are you? Are you – Nobody – too?Emily Dickinson, “I'm Nobody! Who are you?” (poem 260)
