Review: My Salinger Year by Joanna Rakoff

My Salinger Year offers a wonderful insight into the letters that people write beloved author JD Saligner (who famously never responds to any correspondence,) and the life of a twenty-three year old university graduate who finds herself working for Salinger's old-fashioned literary agent in 1996. It is a world where computers and technology are beginning to make their mark ... and Joanna Rakoff finds herself replying to some of the letters that readers are sending JD Salinger.

This was an interesting read and insight into an unusual part of the literary world. Some of the anecdotes are startling--such as when the agent passes on beloved, best selling author Judy Blume's latest novel (especially as it went on to be a best seller). It is also a coming-of-age story of sorts for the author, who learns much in her personal life over the course of that year, especially in regards to romantic relationships.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading My Salinger Year and found the authors account to be incredibly insightful. I loved the glimpse into a late 20th century world that is now gone, where companies were ignoring (or perhaps fighting) advances in technology and changing attitudes. It's also a fascinating insight into the workings of a reclusive author and his book that would never happen. (What is this? You'll have to read this one for yourself to find out.)

Recommended.

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