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The legacy of J.D. Salinger
Today Goodreads mourns the loss of a literary icon and famous recluse, an author who encapsulated teenage angst in The Catcher in the Rye and inspired all of us to avoid the “phonies.” J.D. Salinger died yesterday at the age of 91. The author of one of the most-read books on Goodreads will be remembered for his notable influence on 20th century literature and for his disinterest in fame. In 1953 Salinger moved to New Hampshire and lived in seclusion until his death, shunning the press and avoiding public appearances. Although little is known about the man, his books will forever be read and re-read, and shared with each new generation of thinkers.
What Goodreads Members say about his books:
The Catcher in the Rye
Goodreads member Melanie says, "The author doesn't romanticize Holden's life, you don't read it thinking he has some special key to life that we all need. You simply feel his struggle to fit in and hope eventually he can learn to play the game and see the beauty that is there, hidden a little." Read more reviews »
Franny and Zooey
Lee says, "He's been called the voice of several generations, but Salinger's ability to maintain belly-laugh-worthy humor while touching on such dark themes might be the most notable (and most underappreciated) thing about him." Read more reviews »
Nine Stories
Rolls says, "Salinger's Nine Stories should be renamed How to Write Short Stories. While many hold up Catcher in the Rye as the zenith of his achievements for me it will always be this wistful and brave little book. I re-read it two or three times or year. I love it that much." Read more reviews »
"I love you to pieces, distraction, etc." (Franny and Zooey)
"Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody." (The Catcher in the Rye)
What Goodreads Members say about his books:
The Catcher in the Rye
Goodreads member Melanie says, "The author doesn't romanticize Holden's life, you don't read it thinking he has some special key to life that we all need. You simply feel his struggle to fit in and hope eventually he can learn to play the game and see the beauty that is there, hidden a little." Read more reviews »
Franny and Zooey
Lee says, "He's been called the voice of several generations, but Salinger's ability to maintain belly-laugh-worthy humor while touching on such dark themes might be the most notable (and most underappreciated) thing about him." Read more reviews »
Nine Stories
Rolls says, "Salinger's Nine Stories should be renamed How to Write Short Stories. While many hold up Catcher in the Rye as the zenith of his achievements for me it will always be this wistful and brave little book. I re-read it two or three times or year. I love it that much." Read more reviews »
"I love you to pieces, distraction, etc." (Franny and Zooey)
"Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody." (The Catcher in the Rye)
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