Monday, May 16

Read chapter 16 aloud.

Catcher in the Rye – Character responses (chapters 16-21)
Respond to the following prompts in full paragraphs (topic sentences, evidence from the story, interpretation of that evidence).

1. How does Holden treat little kids? Explain why might he put so much stock in children (ch. 16) and his little sister (ch. 21) and what this indicates about his own character.
2. Holden, the ever suave gentleman, takes Sally Hayes on a date in chapter 17. Considering the things they do and how it ends, what does this confirm about Holden’s state of mind and his character?
   1. Now considering his drunken phone call to Sally in chapter 20. What do you think he’s looking for in the relationship?
3. Chapter 20 gives readers an extended scene of Holden where, in his own way, he reveals a lot more about himself, his family, and his emotions. In a cohesive paragraph answer the following two questions:
   1. In your opinion, what’s the most important piece of information, action, or reaction Holden discusses, and
   2. How would you describe the tone of drunk, late, night Holden? Is he more truthful? More honest with us as readers? Or is he just the same old grumpy kid?