I Hate Chocolate

Expected Nov 2026
Anger alone is never enough
Frederick Beale can see only two options: go viral quick or lose his family forever.

Description

Frederick Beale is thirteen and furious. Uprooted from a privileged private school in London to a less affluent one in Manchester, Frederick will attempt anything to put his old life (and parents) back together, including becoming a globally successful “kidfluencer”. But when footage of Frederick exploding at his favourite teacher unexpectedly goes viral, ‘Furious Freddy’ is born and, wielding this newfound fame, he must choose between an ever-hungry online audience, and loyalty to Rasheed, his only true Northern friend – all the while uncovering the mystery behind his peculiar hatred for chocolate.

Reviews

“Funny, fearless and unmistakably Mancunian, I Hate Chocolate gives young readers a compelling and clear-eyed account of bullying, family fracture and the seductive pull of online fame. At its heart is the beautifully drawn friendship between Frederick and Rasheed, which crosses culture and faith and shows that anger becomes meaningful only when it is transformed into accountability, reconciliation and positive action. Jonny Rodgers writes with wit, warmth and an authentic understanding of young people. This timely and highly readable novel will spark important conversations in classrooms and homes.” Professor Erinma Bell, MBE DL JP Community Peace Activist"