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 struggles with the phoniness of the adult world. Through Holden's unique voice, the book explores themes of alienation, identity, and the loss of innocence. The Catcher in the Rye is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers of all generations.