The Catcher in the Rye is a coming-of-age novel written by J.D. Salinger. The story is narrated by Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager who reflects on his experiences and struggles with identity, alienation, and the phoniness of the adult world. Salinger's portrayal of teenage angst and the search for authenticity resonates with readers of all ages, making The Catcher in the Rye a timeless and influential work of literature.