Who wrote the coming-of-age novel that reflects post-war disillusionment and teenage angst?

Study for the NAQT Literature Test. Enhance your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

The coming-of-age novel that encapsulates post-war disillusionment and teenage angst is "The Catcher in the Rye," written by J.D. Salinger. This novel features the protagonist Holden Caulfield, who embodies the feelings of alienation and confusion experienced by many young people during the post-World War II era. Holden's narrative delves into his struggles with identity, societal expectations, and the loss of innocence, resonating with the themes of disillusionment that were prevalent in literature following the war. Salinger's use of a distinct voice captures the turmoil and complexity of adolescence, making it a seminal work in understanding the psychological landscape of youth during that time.

While the other authors listed also created significant works, their themes and contexts differ. F. Scott Fitzgerald's work often reflects the Jazz Age and the American Dream; Ernest Hemingway’s writing frequently explores themes of war and masculinity; and John Steinbeck is known for addressing social issues and hardships of the working class, particularly in the context of the Great Depression. None of their major works specifically target the teenage experience and post-war disillusionment in the way Salinger's does.

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