About the Author
Robert Cormier was born in Leominster, Massachusetts, on January 17, 1925. As a member of a large, working-class family during the Great Depression, he came […]
The Chocolate War
Setting
Set at a prestigious Catholic high school in New England, The Chocolate War takes place in the late 1960s or early 1970s. Beyond its broad […]
Themes and Characters
It is important to realize that Cormier is a political writer in the most general sense. He devotes his attention to systems rather than individuals […]
Literary Qualities
The Chocolate War offers a harrowing glimpse into human society and relationships, conveying its powerful message through a wealth of literary techniques that give depth […]
Social Sensitivity
Controversy has surrounded The Chocolate War since its appearance in the 1970s. Critics, parents, and educators cited its political cynicism, its sense of despair, and […]
Topics for Discussion
1. Many readers are disturbed by the conclusion of the novel because it is not a “happy ending.” Others claim that it is the only […]
Ideas for Reports and Papers
1. Several other well-known and popular novels deal with private schools as reflections of society and human nature. Compare The Chocolate War with The Catcher […]
Adaptations
The Chocolate War was adapted to the screen in a 1988 film production directed by Keith Gordon and starring John Glover as Brother Leon, Han […]