Readings on the Catcher in the Rye (Greenhaven Press Literary Companion to American Literature) (Paperback)

by Steven Engel (Editor)

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist
Gr. 7^-12. Few protagonists have polarized critics as much as idealistic, profane, disillusioned Holden Caulfield. In this Literary Companion to American Literature volume, deftly chosen essays present strong arguments that are sure to enhance research and ignite class discussions. Wisely, the editor begins by compiling the spurious details of Salinger's life into a cautiously presented biography, always qualifying details either disputed or deliberately obscured by the reclusive Salinger. The four subsequent critical sections build in conviction and passion. "Themes" covers familiar symbolism, structure, and cult status of the novel. More divergent views follow in "Influences," then are set ablaze in "The Character of Holden Caulfield." Jesuit teachers, feminists, linguists, and literary purists all offer fiery arguments for and against young Holden. As an appropriate climax to the debates on the novel's merit, the final section expresses opposite views, first praising the book's genuine voice, then chastising the falseness of a novel whose very theme decries phoniness. In every essay, impassioned writing abounds. Chronology; bibliography; list of Salinger's works. Roger Leslie --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review
"And for literary support, Greenhaven's series Literary Companions has become a standard in many schools and public libraries, thanks to its thoughtful questions and analysis."

Product Details

• Paperback: 127 pages
• Publisher: Greenhaven Press (April 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1565108167
• ISBN-13: 978-1565108165
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.7 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #2,522,906 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent "COMPANION", December 7, 2002

By	RowdyHowdy "dr_hollywood" (New York, NY USA) - See all my reviews

If you're reading this review, you're probably a STUDENT looking for a hint of insight into "The Catcher in the Rye" for school.

You've found it -- I (15 yrs. old @ the time of this writing) enjoyed "CATCHER" on my own, and, interested, bought this essay collection. I wasn't bored by it, either, so you're most likely to have an easy time getting through this.

The title of the book is pretty self-explanatory, so I'll give you some of the HIGHLIGHTS (best essays):

"Catcher" is Weak and Fails to Explore its Themes; Parts of J.D. Salinger's life that can be found in "Catcher"; Holden's Language [this essay is pretty much a PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE on Holden]; and: An ATTACK on "Catcher in the Rye."

So the book is pretty goddam good and all, I mean it really is. I got a real bang out of it and all. I nearly broke my goddam neck, if you want to know the truth.