The Catcher in the Rye is a coming-of-age novel by J.D. Salinger. It follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager who navigates the complexities of adolescence and society. The book deals with themes of alienation, identity, and the loss of innocence. With its unique narrative voice and honest portrayal of teenage angst, The Catcher in the Rye has become a classic in American literature.