The Catcher in the Rye Study Guide

Holden says he only wants start this story on the day he left Pencey Prep. Holden has little respect for the Pennsylvania boarding school for boys. He scoffs at the advertising the school uses, which features a young man on a horse. Holden says has never seen a horse anywhere on school grounds. He starts his story at a Saturday football game with Saxon Hall. It is the game of the year and the stands are packed on the Pencey side. Holden watches the game from a distance. He dislikes everything about Pencey. He especially doesn't like the rule that allows only seniors to bring girls to the football games. The headmaster's daughter, Selma Thurmer, is in the stands. Holden doesn't think she is very pretty, but she is nice. He remembers a conversation they once had on a bus. He was impressed th... (read more)