What does Holden mean by, "I'm quite illiterate, but I read a lot," and what are examples of what he reads?

Holden Caulfield, the main character in the novel “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger, means that, although he does read quite a bit, he is not really conversant in what he is reading or has read. In essence, Holden reads a lot, but does not always grasp the meaning and significance of what he is reading. Therefore, he may get a general overview of a book, but not enjoy the deeper meanings which can be extracted from a book based on critical reading. This type of critical reading looks for the subtext behind the words on the page. Therefore, Holden Caulfield takes part in a more uninformed reading, maybe more of a cursory reading.

Examples of books he reads include “Out of Africa” by Danish author Isak Dinesen (Baroness Karen von Blixen-Finecke). This is a book (a memoir) about her years on the Dark Continent - Africa. Holden Caulfield also read “The Secret Goldfish”, as well as F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.” In addition, he read “The Return of the Native” byThomas Hardy.

Therefore, Holden is not shying away from great literary works of substance. However, admitting that he is “quite illiterate” shows that he is not taking his reading as serious as he might want to, to improve his language and analytical skills. The desire to read is there, which is a good starting point. The challenge for Holden is to take his reading to the next level, whereby he garners all the richness and gems of insight that can be extracted from a fine literary novel. Finding insight from a well-written novel would help him see things from others’ perspectives’ as he tries to negotiate a path that is right for him in life.