Robert Cormier forged a reputation for deeply pessimistic and downbeat literature. His works frequently delve into challenging themes such as abuse, mental illness, violence, betrayal, and conspiracy. Cormier's novels explore the darker aspects of human nature and societal issues, often with protagonists who do not ultimately triumph. His unflinching approach highlights raw reality and psychological complexity, offering readers a thought-provoking and memorable literary experience.
The head of Trinity College asks Archie Costello, the leader of The Vigils, a secret society that rules the school, to sell 20,000 boxes of chocolates in the annual fund-raising effort. But Carter and Obie, leading members of The Vigils, can't contemplate the future until they have destroyed Archie Costello.
A provocative and compelling story of a teenager determined to confront his past.
The story explores the complex relationship between Lori, who seeks closeness with Eric, a man with a violent past. Eric is thrown off balance by Lori's genuine affection, as he grapples with the instinct to distance himself from someone so innocent. This tension between his dark nature and her unfiltered warmth creates a gripping dynamic, challenging the boundaries of love and morality.
IT IS THE summer of 1938 when young Paul Moreaux discovers he can “fade.” First bewildered, then thrilled with the power of invisibility, Paul experiments. But his “gift” soon shows him shocking secrets and drives him toward a chilling act.“Imagine what might happen if Holden Caufield stepped into H. G. Wells’ The Invisible Man , and you’ll have an idea how good Fade is. . . . I was absolutely riveted.”—Stephen King
The story revolves around twelve-year-old Jason, who faces accusations of murdering a young girl, sparking outrage in his town. To uncover the truth, a renowned interrogator, known for his ability to extract confessions, is brought in. The intense interactions between Jason and the interrogator lead to a gripping climax, exploring the dark side of justice when the quest for a confession turns into a personal vendetta. Themes of morality and the consequences of obsession are central to this chilling narrative.
Francis Joseph Cassavant is eighteen. He has just returned home from the Second World War, and he has no face. He does have a gun and a mission: to murder his childhood hero. Francis lost most of his face when he fell on a grenade in France. He received the Silver Star for bravery, but was it really an act of heroism? Now, having survived, he is looking for a man he once admired and respected, a man adored by many people, a man who also received a Silver Star for bravery. A man who destroyed Francis's life. Francis lost most of his face when he fell on a grenade in France. He received the Silver Star for bravery, but was it really an act of heroism? Now, having survived, he is looking for a man he once admired and respected, a man adored by many people, a man who also received a Silver Star for bravery. A man who destroyed Francis's life. -->
Adam Farmer is on a journey - he has to get to Rutterburg with a parcel for his father. But as he travels, he starts to remember the events leading up to this point, memories which are also being prised out in gruelling psychiatric interviews. What is the secret of Adam Farmer? And what will happen when he finds out? 'A stunning read . . . undeniably compulsive to the last line on the last page' Sunday Times
The story follows 16-year-old Denny Colbert, whose life is overshadowed by a tragic accident caused by his father, which resulted in the deaths of 22 children. Struggling with the stigma of his family's past, Denny yearns for normalcy but faces restrictions that prevent him from engaging in typical teenage experiences, such as answering the phone or obtaining a driver's license. His family's constant relocation further isolates him, highlighting the lasting impact of a tragedy that he had no part in but is forced to bear the burden of.
They entered the house at 9:02 P.M. and trashed their way through the Cape Cod cottage. At 9:46 P.M. Karen Jerome made the mistake of arriving home early. Thrown down the basement stairs, Karen slips into a coma. The trashers slip away. But The Avenger has seen it all.
Sixteen-year-old Barney can't remember life before the Complex, an experimental clinlc. He knows he's different--he's the control subject. Then he uncovers a terrible secret about himself, a secret that drives him to fulfill his and his fellow subjects' ultimate dream. The Bumblebee must fly!