The Catcher in the Rye

Contributed by Kate, grade 12 -- May 2018

I think that this was the best book I’ve read all year. The way J. D. Salinger writes in the voice of Holden Caulfield is so convincingly real that it felt as though I was reading a legitimate private memoir. I can also appreciate how this novel brings to light the topic of mental illness without making it the topic of the whole book, or discrediting Holden. Holden’s cynical perspectives on his peers and his surroundings made me laugh and made me think; there was no part of the novel I didn’t find enthralling. I highly recommend this modern classic to anyone who hasn’t read it yet.

Contributed by Jennifer, grade 12 -- Spring 2018

This novel is bold, but not in a bad way. The language is angry and colloquial compared to other novels I've read. I would recommend it to peers because it explores the struggles of transitioning from a teenager to an adult -- basically every high school student's problem.

The main character is a 16-year-old boy named Holden who is figuring out his future plans. His road to adulthood is filled with all the negative things, although he hopes to cherish the beautiful moments of childhood.

Contributed by Sophie, grade 12 -- June 2018

Catcher in the Rye is a classic novel that every one should read. I found the writing style and point of view to be very relateable, allowing me to understand the character's thinking and conflicts.

I really enjoyed reading this book because Holden Caulfield is an interesting character with a unique philosophy towards life. I believe that you should read this book because every one goes through some sort of struggle in growing up -- which is what this book is all about.

Contributed by Yasmine, grade 12 -- June 2018

I found The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger to be a thoroughly enjoyable book. The voice developed by its eccentric protagonist, Holden Caulfield, is famously distinct, and the consistency of voice made the novel believable.

Salinger addresses the topic of mental illness from an objective point of view without getting into too many details. A reader can broaden his or her view on mental health while being simultaneously engrossed in Holden’s story of quitting school to wander New York City.

Although I found that this book provokes thinking about issues, it also shows the emotional side of life. Although Holden speaks of his belief that most people are “phonies", Holden’s tender relationship with his sister and desire to find some joy in life creates an ultimately hopeful premise. I highly recommend The Catcher in the Rye to anyone who wishes to explore life from a wounded, cynical, yet innocent perspective.