In the 50 years since it came out, “The Chocolate War” has become one of the country’s most challenged books.
But the tensest battle over the novel may have been fought in Panama City, Fla., in the mid-1980s.
That’s when an attempt to ban “The Chocolate War” divided the town, leading to arson and death threats against middle-school teachers.
The Mowat teachers endured all sorts of harassment because of their stand.
It featured the words “YOU ALL SHALL DIE” in letters cut out from magazines, and mentioned several teachers by name — including Alyne Farrell.
Persons:
Robert Cormier’s “, Mowat, Pranksters, Alyne Farrell
Organizations:
Mowat Middle School
Locations:
Panama City, Fla