Chapter 1
Who is Mr. Spencer?
He is Holden's History teacher at Pencey Prep
What does Holden mean when he says, “I’m quite illiterate, but I read a lot?”
He is making a joke about how he is not a very good reader but he reads frequently anyway. He likes reading but doesn't like to admit it.
Why does Holden call Stradlater a “secret slob”?
Stadlater has dirty habits like using a filthy razor to shave with.
What word does Holden use that means "fake?"
Phony
How did Holden let the the fencing team down? How does he feel about it?
He left the equipment on the subway. Thought it was "kinda funny"
Why does Holden go to see Mr. Spencer?
Mr Spencer wrote a letter asking him to come by, probably because he knew Holden was being kicked out.
Who is Ackley? Describe him.
Ackley is Holden's classmate at Pencey Prep. He is described as being rude, socially awkward, and having poor hygene.
What favor does Stradlater want Holden to do?
Stradlater asks Holden to write his English composition for him.
What does Holden do quite frequently to "spice up" his vocabulary?
Swear/use curse words
Why is Holden being kicked out of Pencey Prep?
He is failing 4 out of his 5 classes
What does Holden give as his reason for “leaving” Elkton Hills?
He was surrounded by phony people
What does Ackley do that annoys Holden?
Ackley touches things that do not belong to him, asks to borrow things, and bothers Holden when he is trying to read.
What special instructions does Stradlater give Holden about the favor he needs?
Be descriptive and do not make the composition "too good".
Holden says this when he finds something extremely amusing or depressing.
What kind of health is Holden in at the beginning of the novel?
Holden smokes heavily and is winded/tired easily.
What did Mr. Spencer do that annoyed Holden?
He wore pajamas, he picked his nose, and he read Holden's essay to him.
Who is Stradlater? What does he want to borrow?
Stradlater is Holden's classmate. He is described as being attractive and popular.
Who is Stradlater’s date and how does Holden know her?
Jane Gallagher is Stadater's date. Holden used to live next door to her the previous summer.
Answers vary.
Where is Holden as the story begins?
He doesn't say for sure, only that he is not far from Hollywood, California and in some sort of home/medical facility.
What does Holden wonder about the ducks in Central Park in New York City?
Where do the ducks go when the lake freezes in the winter?
What does Holden have to admit about Stradlater?
Holden must admit that Stradlater is a cool, good looking guy, which means Holden can't help but look up to him.
What does Holden start doing to entertain himself while Stradlater shaves? What does this show about Holden?
He starts tap dancing for fun, shows that he is immature or at least acts that way.
What narration/writing style does Holden use?
Stream of Consciousness