Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger
This novel remains a landmark in American literature, primarily because of its raw and authentic portrayal of teenage angst. Holden Caulfield is a disillusioned 16-year-old who navigates the "phony" adult world after being expelled from his prep school. Catcher has sold over 65 million copies worldwide, solidifying its status as a classic. Its influence on literature and popular culture is undeniable.
Holden Caulfield emerges as a character both relatable and enigmatic, his yearning for authenticity and genuine human connection palpable throughout the narrative. Salinger captures the tumultuous emotions and inner turmoil of adolescence, making the character and his experiences genuine and evocative.