The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger. Author J.D. Salinger. The Catcher in Rye is the ultimate novel for disaffected youth, but it's relevant to all ages. Throughout, Holden dissects the 'phony' aspects of society, and the 'phonies' themselves: the headmaster whose affability depends on the wealth of the parents, his roommate who scores with girls using sickly-sweet affection.