3. What affects does Phoebe have on Holden?

Holden isn't very close with his family aside from Phoebe. The strong bond that the two share is very clear. Throughout the book Holden constantly finds himself thinking of Phoebe, whether he’s thinking of calling her or buying her a record. Holden takes the risk of getting caught by his parents just for the chance to see his little sister again. Phoebe also knows a lot about Holden, not only facts about him, but his feelings, “You don't like any schools. You don't like a million things" (220). Phoebe is the only one that Holden will truly let in. Phoebe has helped Holden in numerous ways, with the most significant being how she was able to prevent Holden from running away. Initially it is her plan to run away with him, not because she wants to run away from anything herself, but rather how she wants to take care of Holden. Through the carousel scene Phoebe is able to spark something within Holden, triggered by placing the red hunting hat upon his head that helps to realize the flaws in his plan. Phoebe is one of the few characters whom actually works to resolve conflicts in the story.