The novelist well-known for writing "The Catcher in the Rye" is J.D. Salinger. Published in 1951, this novel captures the complexities of teenage angst and alienation through the character of Holden Caulfield. Salinger’s exploration of themes such as identity, loss, and the critique of societal norms resonated deeply with readers, making the book a classic of American literature. Salinger’s unique narrative style and introspective approach contributed significantly to its enduring relevance, although he famously withdrew from public life, preferring privacy over fame later in his career.