BookishBitching t1_j680lcf wrote on January 28, 2023 at 11:26 AM

I hated Holden. He's a spoiled, snotty little boy with an ego complex. I find it fascinating that it's on so many school reading lists because it's supposed to be an insight into the mind of a teenaged boy, yet I can't recall a single book from a teenaged girl's point of view being required reading. Maybe things are different now, I graduated a long time ago.

wordyshipmate82 t1_j6832ji wrote on January 28, 2023 at 11:59 AM

This is a valid point, syllabi are still often weighed heavily toward men; that doesn't detract from the book; however. I think a book from a teenaged girl's POV should indeed be taught; if you have any suggestions, please let me know; I know I have read some, and they've been great, but I can't recall them off the top of my head.

BookishBitching t1_j684wya wrote on January 28, 2023 at 12:22 PM

I'll be honest I haven't read much YA in the past few years so I'd not be the best person to recommend. Any librarians want to chime in? Haha

Piazytiabet OP t1_j680wjv wrote on January 28, 2023 at 11:31 AM

I had the same thoughts about Holden. He keeps calling everyone a “phony”, yet he himself isn’t that great. Also I don’t think this is a great insight into the mind of a teenage boy, since Holden isn’t a normal teenage boy. He is heavily traumatized and in need of help, and he constantly refuses to address issues with himself.

ri-mackin t1_j68494m wrote on January 28, 2023 at 12:14 PM

The part where he's a hypocrite is actually a strength. A protagonist doesn't need to be likable for you to empathize with them.

BookishBitching t1_j6814dg wrote on January 28, 2023 at 11:34 AM

I'd agree, I'm just parroting what many teachers have told me about why it's on the syllabus.