The Catcher in the Rye is a coming-of-age novel by J.D. Salinger that has become a classic of American literature. The story is narrated by Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager who rebels against the phoniness and hypocrisy of society. Through Holden's unique voice, Salinger explores themes of alienation, identity, and the loss of innocence. The Catcher in the Rye continues to resonate with readers for its honest portrayal of teenage angst and its timeless exploration of the human condition.