Chocolat (Chocolat, #1) in The Better Book Club (BBC)

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May 12, 2014 Jules rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: fiction, with-a-french-twist, food-themed

First of all, I’m almost ashamed to say that I’ve had two copies of this book on my rather expansive bookshelves back from the days when I used to review books for a British regional newspaper. Although I used to review books somewhat professionally in my early twenties I just didn’t get on with ‘Chocolat’ and it quickly became a shelf-mate again for the many books that have travelled around with me over the years.

Then, when I became a French teacher in my mid-twenties, I became acquainted with First of all, I’m almost ashamed to say that I’ve had two copies of this book on my rather expansive bookshelves back from the days when I used to review books for a British regional newspaper. Although I used to review books somewhat professionally in my early twenties I just didn’t get on with ‘Chocolat’ and it quickly became a shelf-mate again for the many books that have travelled around with me over the years.

Then, when I became a French teacher in my mid-twenties, I became acquainted with the film ‘Chocolat’ as a love in itself and as a teaching tool. EVENTUALLY NOW, I’ve come full circle and have actually started, read and enjoyed the original book of ‘Chocolat’ for itself. Everything good comes to those who wait I guess so please read on for my findings.

As mentioned above, I’m really familiar with the film version of this book and I love the film for its difference, calmness and retro-feel. Whilst all of these factors were evident in the book the written version is very opposing to what unfolds on screen in many areas. Whilst reading though, I couldn’t help but capture the on on-screen character of Vianne Rocher as played by Juliette Binoche. Parallels definitely exist between the accurate actor portrayal and the serene persona of a written Vianne who tries to change the lives of many by injecting a little chocolate into their humdrum routines. In short, it's a healer and both on screen and in the book, people fall under the spell of chocolate and it spices up their sense of reality, ambition and general self-realisation and awareness.

The book tackles many themes which are also evident in the film. In truth though, the book has more subtlety and relies on a power of inference that can be explored over a few pages and chapters where the plot twist is generally slower. It surprised me that some of the themes and plotlines are very different across film and book and it’s quite different to see how Joanne Harris and Lasse Hallstrom (the film’s director) differ in their plot development and concentration on character. Roux, for example, is a pivotal character in the film yet he is darker, more discreet and more of a background guy in the book version.

Amongst many other themes, the book deals with contrasts between the power of good and evil, natural versus forced traditions and the state of being a free spirit as opposed to a controlled one. The battle between expectation, conformity and complete freedom of expression is probably the most central one shared between book and film where ‘outsiders’ and interlopers battle for acceptance from those that expect normality as standard.

I’ve always found Joanne Harris to be a great writer and there is certainly no exception being made here. Yes, it may have taken me quite a few years to get round to reading the book but it’s certainly not been time wasted. The gift of reading it now actually seems more generous as I feel just about mature enough to appreciate its messages. Harris knows her context – she knows the rich cultural and religious landscape of a France that was and she also knows how to sketch characters in a deep and mystical way. I thank her for creating the wonderful Vianne, Armande and Roux and I am also clearly visibly grateful for the way these characters are portrayed on screen (brilliantly by the aforementioned Juliette Binoche, Judi Dench and Johnny Depp).

Yes, admittedly comparing and contrasting film and book version to each other can be a bit of a head-spin at times yet both are rich tapestries to enjoy. Clearly, Harris can create inspiring characters which can be beautifully accessed in print or screen with just a few bumpy but fun differences on the way.

Loved the book in the end for its unique and mystical qualities – this ‘Chocolat’ actually tastes so, so sweet on the pensive palate. JE L'ADORE!!!

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Feb 18, 2014 Zoey rated it liked it

It is a beautifully written book. The characters are so clear and easy to picture, and the story is one of awakening. I would have given it a higher rating but for the ending! It's a little too open-ended for me, leaving the reader wondering what the future will bring for the two main characters, Vianne and Reynaud, chocolatier and priest. ...more

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Apr 25, 2014 Elizabeth rated it liked it

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