A review by faithl
My Salinger Year by Joanna Rakoff

4.0

 

 

This book was my dreams come true. EVERYTHING from living to New York to meeting legendary authors and reading manuscripts. EVERYTHING except the boyfriend bit. The writing was insightful, the story was humorous and Rakoff herself was wonderful.

I absolutely loved the fact that Joanna was full of dreams, hopes and pre-conceived, romanticised expectations. It was the wonderful combination of naivety and determination and I just found this inspiring.



I loved reading about J.D Salinger. Their conversations over the phone were exciting and eccentric. I have no idea how Rakoff was able to keep her cool over the phone. I think I'd be hopelessly flailing. Reading about the amount of fan mail and the huge influence Salinger has was incredible. Throughout the novel, we read about people pouring out their hearts about loved one's deaths, their own confused emotions and even mimicking Holden from the Catcher in the Rye. It was amazing to read all of this and how many lives Salinger's novels have touched.

Rakoff's own experiences in New York surrounding money, working in an Agency and meeting new people was brilliant. There's always this wonder when you read the exciting experiences of people who make it. It's almost like they're like Dumbledore, full of wise words. Joanna Rakoff is now my Dumbledore. She talked about staying with boy who wasn't healthy for her, finding her own independence and having the bravery to step out of your comfort zone. All of this in NEW YORK. THE YORK OF NEW!!!!



My Salinger Year was undoubtedly an insightful, humorous and wise memoir. I 100% recommend this to anyone who just has a huge love for books!