The Catcher in the Rye

The Catcher in the Rye is the only full-length novel by writer J.D. Salinger. First published in 1951, the book has become a classic of American literature and is one of the most studied, debated and controversial books in the English language.Time Magazine: All-Time 100 Best Novels

Plot Synopsis

The novel follows 48 hours in the life of its narrator Holden Caulfield and is told as a flashback by Holden who is currently in a mental institute. After being expelled from his Prep School, 16 year old Caulfield decides to return to New York City and stay in a hotel. After a number of unsatisfying encounters with various people (including a prostitute, a bouncer and an old girlfriend), Holden meets with his sister Pheobe in order to explain that he is running away. While the cause of his "Illness" is never disclosed, the novel ends with Holden optimistically talking about the new school that he will be attending the next year.

Critical Reception

Since its original publication, the book has invoked strong feelings from readers and critics alike. Proponents of the book have said that it accurately reflects the conflicted feelings and emotions of teenagers in the modern world,SparkNotes: The Catcher in the Rye while critics have challenged the book on the basis of its vulgar language,C-J Online: Art or trash? It makes for endless, unwinnable debate (October 6, 1997) its mature themes and its supposed encouragement of rebellion and defiance of authority.New York Times: Banned, but Not Forgotten (August 31, 2003) Regardless of the controversy, the book is still one of the most commonly assigned books in American high schools.Sylvia Andrychuk: A History of J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye (February 17, 2004)

Interpretation

The character is perceived by many critics as being an innocent adrift in a troubled world, while others have blamed the character for inspiring discord in adolescents.New York Times: Banned, but Not Forgotten (August 31, 2003) For that reason, "The Catcher in the Rye" has been one of the most banned books in American schools.American Library Association: The 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books of 1990–2000