I first read Catcher in the Rye in my sophomore English class. I thought it was boring and that my teacher was making me analyze words that meant absolutely nothing. I re-read it about a week ago, and I have to admit, she was definitely onto something. While it’s not on my ‘favorites’ list, Catcher in the Rye is a book I would read again willingly, and that’s good enough for me.

I wasn’t a big fan of the writing style going into it, as the references to the time period and some of the language were just too far off from what I’m used to. However, I was immersed in the story itself, and I really enjoyed it. It follows the story of a teenage boy named Holden Caulfield as he narrates the months of his most recent winter, and I thought it was a very honest book with a very honest main character. Holden is definitely not the best person to narrate his life. He’s extremely biased in favor of himself and he enjoys hating on every other person he comes into contact with, but it’s something about his cynicism that makes the book such an interesting read.

For me, Holden’s inner monologue was a character that I feel most people could relate to, although not to the extent that he feels things. He’s a bit rude and that’s something most teenagers resonate with, especially going through high school and early adult life while figuring out who they are. I didn’t like Catcher in the Rye at first, but I recommend giving it a try if you’re also trying to figure yourself out.

– Tanvi G.

The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger is available for checkout from the Mission Viejo Library. It can also be downloaded for free from Libby.