In the novel The Chocolate War, by Robert Cormier, should be a challenged book
because it has sexual content, uses possibly offensive derogatory terms but it
also prepares the reader for life by teaching them about making smart choices.
The main character Archie goes
through hardship and learns life lessons, which could influence the reader in a
positive way. This is the reason for the book being an important read. Archie goes through difficult times where other students bully him
at his high school. He learns valuable lessons from his hardship, and at one
point Cornier states about the main character, “Archie believed in always doing
the smart thing. Not the thing you ached to do, not the impulsive act, but that
thing that would pay off later “(Cornier 39). The lessons Archie learns these
important lessons from the difficult times and choices he goes through. The
story changes from Archie’s suffering to his understanding, and this also
changes some things for the reader. Through Archie’s bad experienced in high
school, the reader, most likely either in high school or elementary, comes to
find a lesson, just as Archie does. Archie realizes how to make decisions that
do not include choosing the “impulsive act” where even if the decision may be
difficult at that time, that same choice will “pay off later.” These important
decisions made by Archie, helping the reader know what decisions to make when
being bullied. The book may be inappropriate at times but The Chocolate War is
also a book that influences the reader in a positive way!
#Werkinhard #onthatgrind
ReplyDeleteI think that you made some good points. I agree with you because the sexual content is challenging. I also agree with the good life lessons that help the character and eventually the reader. I think that high schoolers should read this because it sounds like it is relatable for high schoolers, but might challenge them into thinking differently. I can't wait to read it for myself.
ReplyDeleteI have not read this book but I do agree with the thoughts that you have. I think that this lesson of being able to make decisions without being influenced by others, and being able to stand up to others could change the way some people who are bullied act. This book could even change the way bullies act. I agree though with the fact that the book should be challenged because of the sexual content which can sometimes over ride the thought of a life lesson.
ReplyDeleteI have never read this book or even heard of it before, however based on the points you give and some of the things you told me about it, it should be challenged. I believe based on your first paragraph that it does contain a good high moral integrity despite the sex, and language. So it should not be banned but yes challenged so that we can put into context why we would read this and then we would read it. I hope to read this book soon and i am glad to hear that it is a good book.
ReplyDeleteI have not read this book but your idea seems right, in my opinion. It seems like the character Archie goes through hardships but overcomes them, like many high-schoolers may go through as well. It also looks like this book could be a must-read but, like I said, I have not read this so therefore do not know of the inappropriate aspects. Bullying is definitely an important act that could teach many lessons. However, the "sexual content" probably pushed you to make this book challenged, rather than must-read.
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