The Wave by Morton Rhue (Todd Strasser)

The Wave by Morton Rhue (Todd Strasser) is a powerful and thought-provoking novel based on a true story from a California high school in 1967. It explores the dangers of groupthink, conformity, and authoritarianism through the lens of a classroom experiment that spirals out of control.

When history teacher Ben Ross introduces his students to a film about the Nazis, they struggle to understand how ordinary people could support such atrocities. To help them grasp the concept, Ross creates a social movement called The Wave, promoting discipline, community, and action. At first, students embrace the movement enthusiastically—but soon, the classroom transforms into a microcosm of a totalitarian regime, and the line between education and manipulation begins to blur.

Written in clear, accessible language, The Wave is a compelling and chilling examination of human psychology and the allure of power. It is especially popular in schools and remains a relevant read for teens and adults alike.

Technical details

ISBN: 9780435123789

Pages: 128

Publisher: Heinemann Educational Books (New Windmills KS4 series)

Publication year: 1991

Language: English

Target audience: Teen / Young adult

Genres: Historical fiction, psychological drama, educational literature, young adult fiction.