The Catcher in the Rye
By JD Salinger
Release Date: July 16, 1951
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3 Stars - A classic that I'd wanted to read for about ten years and didn't quite live up to my expectations. It's short and first person POV but by no means an easy read. Holden's an interesting character in a likable jerk sort of way, but he and I didn't have much in common. I could certainly see the fun for English majors in analyzing his every thought and move but for the average reader, this leaves a lot to be desired. The story is just a story without a real beginning, middle, or end. It's just sort of a glimpse into one young man's life in another time. He's not all that rich or poor. Not especially bright or artistic or romantic. There's definitely a Rebel Without a Cause atmosphere here that would appeal to some. Personally, I did enjoy a little of the dry humor in Holden's internal commentary. But I can't say I'd recommend it to many people unless maybe they were trying to get in some classics or do a book report.
(NS)