The Catcher in the Rye

A controversial coming-of-age novel following 16-year-old Holden Caulfield as he wanders New York City after being expelled from prep school, struggling with depression, alienation, and his cynical view of adult society. The story explores themes of teenage angst, mental health, loss of innocence, and the search for authentic human connection in a world Holden perceives as phony. The narrative deals with mature themes including depression, suicidal ideation, and encounters with adult situations, making it a frequent subject of literary study and debate.