The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier

Cormier, Robert. The Chocolate War. New York: Laurel Leaf, 1974. ISBN-10: 0-440-94459-7

Summary 
Trinity school is controlled by a secret group called The Vigils. The Vigils assign each new freshman a task, which he must complete without telling anyone. Although he isn't officially the leader, Archie is the mastermind behind the tasks. Brother Leon is the acting headmaster who is also in charge of the school's chocolate sale fundraiser. Brother Leon asks Archie for The Vigils support in selling all of the chocolates, thus acknowledging the existence of The Vigils. For freshman Jerry, his task is to refuse to sell the chocolates for ten days. Sensing that other students are encouraged by his refusal, Jerry continues to refuse, thereby undermining the authority of The Vigils. Without meaning to, Jerry has set off a power struggle between The Vigils, the administration and the students. The Vigils aren't willing to give up control without a fight.

Critical Evaluation 
Set in an all-boys Catholic school complete with secret society, some readers may have trouble relating to the setting. However, everyone can relate to Jerry's struggle to make a statement in a society where conformity is valued. The dangerous power struggles raise the stakes on the story, promising life changing violence. Chocolate War is now a classic of young adult literature. It is stunning for its depressing conclusion in which Jerry decides that individuality isn't worth the price.

Reader's Annotation 
When Jerry dares to defy The Vigils, the secret society that controls Trinity school, Jerry doesn't know what the final cost will be. As Jerry asks himself, "Do I dare disturb the universe?"

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness 
Acknowledge the potential price of a fight before you begin.

Genre and Subject 
Realistic fiction. School bullying.

Why I read it
The Chocolate War is a classic, with a controversial ending that will anger readers.