The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger - 1951

Boston, MA: Little Brown & Company. Very Good with no dust jacket. 1951. Later Printing. Hardcover. Very Good: shows just a touch of shelving wear to the extremtiies; mild rubbing to the panels and a bit of faint consequent soiling; the binding shows little lean, but remains secure; the text is clean. Free of any creased or dog-eared pages in the text. Free of any underlining, hi-lighting or marginalia or marks in the text. Free of any ownership names, dates, addresses, notations, inscriptions, stamps, plates, or labels. A handsome reading copy, structurally sound and tightly bound, showing the mildest wear and minor, unobtrusive imperfections. Bright and clean. Corners sharp. NOT a Remainder, Book-Club, or Ex-Library. 8vo (8.55 x 5.65 x 0.9 inches) . Language: English. Weight: 13.1 ounces. Black cloth over boards with gilt titles at the backstrip. Deckle fore-edge. We believe this to be a later printing. No overt indications that it is either a first edition, an early printing, or for that matter a book-club edition. Copyright page simply provides a copyright date of 1951. The Catcher in the Rye was partially published in serial form in 1945–46 before being novelized in 1951. The first edition was stated as such and at least the second printing was marked as such. Hardcover: Lacks DJ. Originally intended for adults, it is often read by adolescents for its themes of angst and alienation, and as a critique of superficiality in society. The novel also deals with themes of innocence, identity, belonging, loss, connection, sex, and depression. The main character, Holden Caulfield, has become an icon for teenage rebellion. Caulfield, nearly of age, gives his opinion on a wide variety of topics as he narrates his recent life events. It a timeless classic that takes readers on a poignant journey into the mind of its young protagonist, Holden Caulfield. The novel presents a raw and introspective narrative, centered around the disillusioned yet perceptive sixteen-year-old navigating the complexities of life in New York City. Salinger's masterful storytelling unfolds as Holden Caulfield embarks on a three-day odyssey after leaving his prep school, delving into the heart of New York City. The novel artfully weaves the voices of children, adults, and the underground society, but it is Holden's voice that resonates the loudest. His eloquence, a blend of simplicity and complexity, offers a deeply personal insight into his world. Holden Caulfield emerges as a character both relatable and enigmatic, his yearning for authenticity and genuine human connection palpable throughout the narrative. Salinger beautifully captures the tumultuous emotions and inner turmoil of adolescence, making the character and his experiences incredibly genuine and evocative. The novel's brilliance lies in Salinger's ability to transcend vernacular while maintaining an authentic portrayal of Holden's unique voice. The contrast between Holden's attraction to beauty and his internal pain creates a compelling duality that resonates with readers. Holden's self-imposed isolation and his struggle to grapple with life's complexities evoke both empathy and admiration for his resilience. ; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 216 pages .