The Catcher in the Rye is J.D. Salinger’s 1951 novel of post-war alienation told by angst-ridden teen Holden Caulfield. Controversial at the time of publication for its frank language, it was an instant best-seller, and remains beloved by both teens and adults. Read a character analysis of Holden, plot summary, and important quotes.

Summary

Read one-minute Sparklet summaries, the detailed chapter-by-chapter Summary & Analysis, the Full Book Summary, or the Full Book Analysis of The Catcher in the Rye.

Characters

See a complete list of the characters in The Catcher in the Rye and in-depth analyses of Holden Caulfield, Phoebe Caulfield, Mr. Antolini, Mr. Spencer, Stradlater, and Carl Luce.

Literary Devices

Here's where you'll find analysis of the literary devices in The Catcher in the Rye, from the major themes to motifs, symbols, and more.

Quick Quizzes

Test your knowledge of The Catcher in the Rye with quizzes about every section, major characters, themes, symbols, and more.

Further Study

Go further in your study of The Catcher in the Rye with background information about J. D. Salinger and the novel, movie adaptations, and links to resources around the web.