It can be challenging to discuss Charlie and the Chocolate Factory without revisiting the controversy sparked in 1972 by Eleanor Cameron's criticism. However, the novel offers much more for conversation than just reexamining old complaints. For a discussion group interested in exploring Cameron's allegations, a good starting point would be to compare the current edition, with its revised content, to the original version. The origin and characteristics of the Oompa-Loompas were notably altered. Were these changes necessary? Did they effectively address the offensive elements of the novel? Which edition provides a better reading experience? One risk is that the conversation might veer from the novel itself to a broader debate about what is or isn't offensive in literature, potentially leading to a chaotic argument about personal reading preferences.

If there is a discussion leader, guiding the group towards themes, style, and structure would be beneficial. As a modern fairy tale, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory can be seen as a reflection of its audience's desires. Just as medieval folk tales depicted warm beds, abundant food, and cozy homes (often castles) for audiences who longed for these things, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory might resonate with a young audience's wishes for moral clarity, kindness, and, of course, sweets. The novel's style exemplifies the free-association often found in fairy tales and dream-like qualities — an elderly man bedridden for twenty years suddenly gets up and walks around effortlessly; people work screwing on toothpaste-tube caps (someone has to do it!); and candy factories transform into magical realms full of youthful mysteries and challenges. Its structure is meandering; the joy lies in being inside the world's most enigmatic candy factory and marveling at its wonders. The novel's symbolism, moralistic tone, and blend of gentle and outrageous humor (there goes another bad nut, down the hole!) could provide hours of engaging discussion.

1. One notable feature of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is its moral messaging. Children generally grasp these morals and their significance, but why would they enjoy a book that constantly preaches to them? The novel could easily come across as an irritating adult scolding them with, "Don't be greedy! Share with others! Don't talk with your mouth full! Don't watch too much TV! Respect others' rights!" Indeed, Wonka and the Oompa-Loompas spend much of the story instructing children on proper behavior. Yet, children adore this book. In many bookstores, children's books fall into two categories: those kids buy for themselves and those adults buy for kids. "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is a book children choose for themselves. Why? What makes its moral lessons so appealing?

2. Comparing the novel to its film adaptation can shed light on how fiction operates differently from drama. The morals are overt in the movie, with the Oompa-Loompas singing about the lessons each episode imparts. The film boasts a more structured plot than the book. Is this necessary for fiction to translate successfully to film? Why can fiction thrive with minimal plot? What does this contrast reveal about the unique capabilities of fiction? Can fiction achieve what other literary forms cannot?

3. Willy Wonka's characterization is perplexing. At times, he acts like a stern parent, then a friendly candy maker, and at other times, a powerful magician. This aligns with the dreamlike quality of the story but poses challenges for analysis. Is Willy Wonka a well-developed character? Is he one-dimensional? Or is he something entirely different?

4. "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is rich with symbolism. Which symbols resonate with children? Are there any symbols that might go unnoticed by them? What makes the symbols (including...