William Golding’s classic novel, the “Lord of the Flies,” revolves around a group of British schoolboys who survive a plane crash only to find themselves stranded on a deserted island. The boys led by Ralph are initially able to maintain a semblance of democratic order similar to the outside world by using a conch shell to discuss important matters as a group. However, this civilized system eventually collapses as another boy named Jack attempts to take leadership. Instead of maintaining the signal fire necessary for rescue, many of the boys began to revert to anarchy and savagery. Discussion becomes less important as fear of a monster on the island makes the boys gravitate towards strong leadership and the use violence. Jack creates his own separate tribe that gradually eclipsed the society led by Ralph. The boys who joined the tribe embraced a warrior culture and conducted ritual feasts and dances. Golding’s novel explores themes such as order versus anarchy and civilization vs savagery.

This novel can serve as an effective gateway to a discussion about how children should respect each other as well as navigate a world that is increasingly divisive and filled with hatred.