The Catcher in the Rye
This book marks my 7th book read on my Classic's List for my Classic's Challenge.
I can't say that I necessarily enjoyed this book. It mostly served the purpose of checking it off my TBR list and satisfying a curiosity. Never reading this in high school I wonder if I might have liked it more if I read it while I was in my teens so as to better relate to the main character?
Holden Caulfield is the protagonist and comes from privilege. We come into his life as he has been expelled from a prep school. Before he leaves he gets into a fight with his roommate and then heads off to New York as he delays his arrival at home to face his parents. Along the way he meets up with old friends in addition to experiencing odd encounters with several strangers. As a coming-of-age novel it's apparent Holden is anxious about the future and what it holds for him.
Most of the story was of a rambling nature as well as continuous repetitive phrases which made it for a awkward read. Perhaps this is Salinger's way of showing us Holden is ill and his thought process is disconnected.
While I wouldn't recommend this book I am happy to be able to say that I have read it.
How I acquired this book: Gift from son. Mother's Day visit to Moe's Books, Berkeley, CA
Shelf Life: 8 months
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