Jerry Renault is a freshman at Trinity High School, which is being intimidated by a mob known as "The Vigils". When the annual chocolate sale comes around, Brother Leon wants the students to sell more that year than any other. When Jerry refuses to sell them, he finds himself in the middle of a brutal mob rule.
Morality
The Vigils use intimidation to get what they want, and they rule the students brutally, especially when they hear that Jerry will not sell the chocolates. Eventually this leads to a showdown between Jerry and one of The Vigils. The Assigner of the Vigils, Archie Costello, is a manipulative villain. Jerry is the tragic hero of the story.
Spiritual Content
Trinity High School is a Catholic school, but Brother Leon is portrayed as being a venomous Assistant Headmaster.
Violence
Jerry is bullied at school by the Vigils when he refuses to sell the chocolates. His locker is trashed and his art project is stolen. Eventually he gets somewhat threatening phone calls as well. There is a wrestling match at the end of the story, in which both opponents are bloodied.
Drug and Alcohol Content
None.
Sexual Content
Jerry is beginning to look at girls in a new way, especially one that he sees at his bus stop, which he often thinks about. A few fleeting references to other pubertal subjects.
Crude or Profane Language or Content
A few harsh insults ("b-st-rd") as well as four letter words used by students ("h-ll", "d-mn"). The Lord's name is taken in vain.
Conclusion
"The Chocolate War" is a different sort of young adult novel. It is very well written by popular young adult author Robert Cormier, and was also adapted into a film. It's often challenged by parents and teachers, which is understandable. There is some inappropriate content and language, but I recommend it for older teens and young adults.
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