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The Catcher in the Rye

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1951

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Book Brief

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J. D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1951
Book Details
Pages

277

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1950s

Publication Year

1951

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

Lexile Level

790L

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Super Short Summary

In The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield, a teenager narrating his story from an institution, recounts his internal struggles and picaresque adventures after being expelled from Pencey Prep. He navigates encounters with various people in New York City, including a date with an old fling, a meeting with two nuns, and time spent with his younger sister, Phoebe. He also visits an old teacher and eventually finds solace watching Phoebe on a carousel. The book includes discussions of depression and mental illness.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Gritty

Nostalgic

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.1

3,663,442 ratings

65%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye has drawn polarized reviews. Many praise its authentic depiction of teenage angst and rebellion, highlighting Holden Caulfield's relatable and candid narrative voice. However, some criticize the protagonist's incessant negativity and the novel’s ostensibly aimless plot. Its enduring appeal lies in its honest exploration of youthful disillusionment.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Catcher in the Rye?

Readers who appreciate The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger often enjoy introspective, coming-of-age tales with complex, relatable protagonists. Fans of J. D. Salinger's work may also appreciate novels like To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky.

4.1

3,663,442 ratings

65%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

277

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1950s

Publication Year

1951

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

Lexile Level

790L

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