J.D. Salinger's Catcher in the Rye

I read this book at 16 because a teacher told me I would relate to the main character. This was soon after I had been diagnosed with manic-depressive illness. I am now 21 and have read the book several times and the more I experience and live through the symptons of my illness, I see how the entire book seems to show that Holden might have been experiencing a manic episode. And it is amazing that it was written so long ago, before much was known of the illness. I adore this book because the thoughts and emotions I sometimes have that seem to be so terribly painfull and unexplainable are all stated crystal clear right there in the pages. I reccomend this book to anyone who has manic-depression, or anyone who wishes to understand such a person's emoitional obstacles. I also highly reccomend all other works by Salinger, particularly "Raise High the Roofbeam, Carpenters and Seymour, an Introduction".

The book The Catcher in the Rye was one of the best books I have ever read, and also my favorite. As a fifteen year old myself I understood much of what Holden was going through. I got the book and didn't stop reading it untill I finished it the next night. I loved the style of writing and it kept me interested untill the very last word.

The Catcher in the Rye was a terrific book, but it's even better when you understand the meaning behind it. The whole theme is about maturity. When Holden talks about being the catcher in the rye, he wants to save the children from falling into maturity. In the end, he let's go of it because he sees Phoebe and the other kids reaching for the gold ring. The gold ring symbolizes that people are always striving for things they will never be able to reach.

I absolutely loved this book. Holden Caulfield captures the essence of youth and all the troubles that the youth of any era must go through. A great book for anyone, from a high school student to someone in their 40's. This book will have you laughing, sympathizing and nearly in tears as you read about this troubled young man.