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The Catcher in the Rye
 

The Catcher in the Rye

by J. D. Salinger

Since his debut in 1951 as The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield has been synonymous with "cynical adolescent." Holden narrates the story of a couple of days in his sixteen-year-old life, just after he's been expelled from prep school, in a slang that sounds edgy even today and keeps this novel on banned book lists. It begins,

"If you really want to hear about it, the first thing... (read more)

Top tags: fiction,  classic,  coming of age,  literature,  american literature (all tags)

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Amazon Reviews (5)
 

Most Helpful Reviews

Liked It

2 of 2 members found this review helpful.
Stacy W
  • Rated 4 stars

“When I first read this book in high school, I really couldn't see what the big deal was about it that made people want to ban it in years past. Later, I realized that it was about a teenager not wanting to conform with what society expects of him. Now I feel fortunate to have grown up in a time when I was free to think for myself!”

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Didn’t Like It

1 of 1 members found this review helpful.
drea2228
  • Rated 2 stars

“I did not enjoy this book...but I read it twice anyway! I think it's over-rated and I think the main character is a bit spoiled and found the narrative dull.”

drea2228’s full review »
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Community:
  • Rated 3.972759 stars
Amazon:
  • Rated 4 stars
  

Newest Comments

  • Mikael S

    mikael s said:

    “This is the funniest book I have ever read. I visit Holden Caulfield whenever I need to laugh. Everytime I hear the name Phoebe, I hear Holden Caulfield, "Damn Phoebe!"”

    posted 3 days ago
  • Luella S

    luella s said:

    “At 10 I thought Holden was so cool and wise... now I'd probably say something rude to him.”

    posted 3 days ago
  • E Bennet

    e bennet said:

    “I guess the optimistic in me sort of hoped that Holden would find something he can be comfortable with instead of running away. But when I was reading it, sometimes I got really irritated with his complaint and opinions on things, it was like he didn't like anything or anyone. When I think about it, Hilden seem to think like a grown-up but is still innocent enough to think he can find a place where he can be contented.”

    posted 4 days ago
  • Rowena C

    rowena c said:

    “There definitely is a right time to read certain books. Just as you require the right distance to appreciate certain paintings. Although this book is often required ready in high-schools and university courses, it's a book generally best appreciated by over 25s. Before then it can be difficult to appreciate the theme of the erosion of ideals and soul that takes place as you make those soul destroying compromises necessary to function in the modern world. In England, I read this book at 15 and Holden came across as a twat. Nothing but an annoying whiner. Wasn't until the working life and adult relationships began in earnest that I fully appreciated Salinger's take on things. It's also a theme well treated in 'Hors d'oeuvres,' a short story from the collection, 'London Tales' by David Edward. ”

    posted 10 days ago ( | view 1 reply )
  • JSwan

    jswan said:

    “Great classic for most people to read. Some of the material may be offensive.”

    posted Friday, July 11 2008
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