2. A study of J.D. Salinger and his controversial novel, The Catcher in the Rye

3. About the Author JD Salinger

4. Salinger and Holden Caulfield American author J. D. Salinger, who was born in 1919, apparently drew upon his own experiences when bringing Holden Caulfield to life. The following table compares events in the life of the fictional Caulfield with events in the life of Salinger.. Holden CaulfieldJ. D. Salinger Born and raised in New York City Attends several boarding schools but does not graduate Graduated from Valley Forge Military Academy; attended several colleges but did not graduate Parents Are of Different Religious Faiths Parents Were of Different Religious Faiths Parents Are Well-to-DoParents Were Well-to-Do Undergoes Psychiatric TreatmentHospitalized for Stress After Serving in World War II Isolates Himself From OthersLives Reclusively in New Hampshire

5. John Hinckley tried to assassinate Ronald Reagan Mark David Chapman killed John Lennon Referenced in many movies, songs, speeches Banned in many schools

6. Plot Summary Setting: Prepatory School----- Hospital Primary Character: Holden Caufield Conflict: Childhood to Adulthood Themes: Growing up is hard Lonliness & Alienation Escape Lack of commitment Search for Identity Abondonment, Rebellion, Deception Hope