I bought the book just for something to do after my car accident. Me being 16 and all I didnt have much life after I lost the car. I love the way I could fly though it. All the "old slang" I understood pretty well without grabbing for Mr. Dictionary. . Holden was in a situation that I know I could relate to. (Well not the prostitute part but..same feeling running through my blood though.) I agree that the world is full of phonies and it just surprized me that J.D. wasnt trying to shove some typical hog slog story down my neck. (Like all the other "Great Writers") Just read the book. If you want to know what kids have to put up with (from parents, society, school cheeses, and the pain of loosing someone that just made your day when you'd do nothing but childish things) then read the book.