The Chocolate Touch

Patrick Skene CatlingFiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1952

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Introduction

Teacher Introduction

The Chocolate Touch

Genre: Fiction; children's literature; fantasy
Originally Published: 1952
Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 770L; grades 2-5
Structure/Length: 12 chapters; approximately 128 pages; approximately 1 hour, 17 minutes on audio
Protagonist/Central Conflict: The protagonist, John Midas, is a young boy who loves chocolate above all else. After acquiring a magical ability to turn everything he touches into chocolate, John initially delights in his new power. He soon discovers the drawbacks and challenges, however, when his food, belongings, and even his mother turn into chocolate. The central conflict revolves around John's struggle to reverse the effects of his new power and learn the importance of moderation and the value of other aspects of life beyond chocolate.
Potential Sensitivity Issues: Mild fantasy peril; greed and its consequences; lessons on self-control and the appreciation for non-materialistic values

Patrick Skene Catling, Author

Bio: Born in 1925; British author and journalist; has written numerous books for children and adults, but best known for The Chocolate Touch; often incorporates humor and whimsical fantasy to explore moral and ethical lessons
Other Works: John Midas in the Dreamtime (1986); John Midas and the Vampires (1994)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide: