A review by joshkiba13
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

This book was really fun. I don't condone all of Holden's behavior or attitudes, but boy was he an entertaining narrator. I don't know if all of his slang was common in the 50s or if J.D. Salinger made it up to serve the character. Either way, I truly felt like I was reading the musings of a troubled 16 year old kid. I laughed quite a bit at Holden's wild exaggerations, his contradictions, his ability to focus and comment on the quirky behaviors of those around him, and how he refers to everyone as "old so-and-so"; even his little sister is "Old Phoebe." With its smoking, swearing, school hating, and talk of sex, I can see why this was a controversial novel in the 50s, but I adore it. Those elements don't define the story, which in the end is about a depressed and lost teenager finding his way and purpose in life through his wanderings and conversations in New York. It was a quick read and likely one that I'll return to.
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