Chocolate madness

Author: Joanne Harris
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-02-01
Features: Lonskaquanai, located in the grape-growing mountainous area of the lower Tann River in France, has a population of over 200. The narrow old houses, the quiet cobblestone streets, and the surreal stone church—all create an atmosphere where the priest holding the Bible chases the children into the church to pray. The old-fashioned customs linger, reminiscent of the famous 2001 Oscar-nominated film "Chocolat": in the harsh winter, the beautiful unmarried mother Viana enters this closed-off town, opens a colorful chocolate shop opposite the church, and breaks the century-old deadlock. She can magically sense the private troubles of each customer and prescribe chocolate to address them. Thus, the residents of the town begin to indulge in the temptation and joy of chocolate. This angers Father Reilly. Father Reilly sees Viana as an evil witch and swears to destroy her chocolate festival plans on Easter Sunday and to banish her from the town forever. An showdown ensues between two forces: one that is addicted to the cold comfort they receive at the church, and the other that is immersed in the newfound pleasures.