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The Times' 20 best modern novels
5. 'The Catcher in the Rye' by JD Salinger
Directionless, sarcastic, up himself and afraid to grow up, Salinger's iconic novel was embraced forcibly by high school students looking to vent their angst. Its influence was far greater and more powerful than anyone could've imagined - it helped inspire John Lennon's assassination.
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