The Catcher In The Rye, J.D. Sallinger (8/10)
A light and fun read, especially those in the formative parts of their lives - questioning their role in society and just generally society itself
Rating: 8/10
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⛰ What It's About
The Catcher In The Rye is about Holden Caulfield a 16-year old boy - he's previously been kicked out of 3 schools and is just kicked out of his latest one. The story's almost a journey of self-discovery for Holden. He's a smart and funny kid, who's slightly on the spectrum, and is a little bit lost and doing some soul-searching.
After a fight with his roommate, Stradlater, Holden leaves school two days early to explore New York before returning home, interacting with teachers, prostitutes, nuns, an old girlfriend, and his sister along the way. He sees society as full of 'phonies' and is fugazi and it's really funny how he just rejects standard societal protocols.
There's lots of talk of sex, sexual relationships, sexual development. Holden himself seems anxious on the whole topic and kinda talks like he's trying to be a sick guy when in fact he's not. He seems slightly insecure but then also a sick guy - he's just finding himself.
🔍 How I Discovered It
Super famous book. I read the physical copy from Alen's books.
🧠 Thoughts
I really enjoyed the opportunity to build a close relationship with Holden and delve into the inner-workings of his brain, by virtue of the fact the book is written in past-first-person.
Because it's written by a 16-year old kid, with a nice sense of humour, it's a light and enjoyable read. And it's one of the only books I've ever read that really made me laugh.
At times, while reading the book, it didn't seem like the story was actually going anywhere - it was just character development. Because of that, the book didn't grab my attention the way I'd liked it to have and I did get a little bored.
I liked the fact the character is young and trying to find himself sexually, emotionally, etc. in the world - it's a cool journey we're all on.
🥰 Who Would Like It?
Anyone looking for a light and fun read, especially those in the formative parts of their lives - questioning their role in society and just generally society itself.