1. Introduction to J.D. Salinger’s: The Catcher in the Rye

2. J.D. Salinger
1919 – present
Has written several books about young people including The Catcher in the Rye and Franny and Zoey
Served in WWII
Has not granted an interview since 1980!

3. J.D. Salinger
Recognized by critics and readers alike as one of the most popular and influential authors of American fiction during the second half of the twentieth century.
Has remained to stay out of the public eye for most of his life.

4. The Catcher in the Rye Published in 1951
Has sold over 65 million copies world wide!
Despite its popular success, the critical response to The Catcher in the Rye was slow in getting underway.
One of the most frequently challenged books in library history because of sex and vulgar language.
Named one of the best novels of the 20th century by Time Magazine.

5. The Catcher in the Rye
Tells the story of a teenager expelled from his high school and his journey across NYC in the 1950’s.
Issues discussed in the book include: school, teachers, music, sex, alcohol, hypocrisy, family, and being a teenager.
A story about Holden Caulfield, the 16 year old protagonist of the novel, and his experiences in school and New York City.

6. Your Task Historical Information:
You are responsible for finding all the information you can about life in 1949.  Here are some things you might want to think about:  what was it like being a teenager in 1949?  Holden's use of language is very distinct in the novel-- is this the way most teenagers spoke at the time?  How did they dress?  What did they like to listen to?  What was the median income?  What was the median income for people like Holden's parents?  You can include pictures, links, anything you want, as long as it’s connected to life in the late 1940s. You can get creative!

7. Your Task History of The Catcher in the Rye:
Why did this book have such an impact on Americans of the 20th century and today?  Here are some suggestions:  Look for information on book reviews when it was published in 1951, link interviews with current writers that were affected by Holden and add them to your report.  How did teenagers react to the book when it was first published?  Why was the book banned?  See if you can find some reasons.
Use your class time wisely! Your homework assignment will reflect this activity.

8. Tomorrow…
Homework due: 1-2 page (double spaced) journal entry that talks about your findings. You choose the topic. Suggestions: What did you find particularly interesting? What did you learn? Would you like to have lived during that time period?
We will begin reading the novel in class…
And… we will begin a Wordwall. As you read, take notice of vocab. words you are unfamiliar with. These can be added to the Wordwall and will be tested on future quizzes/exams.