Here's another addition from intern Craig. This one deals with an article we found on CNN discussing J.D. Salinger and copywright infringement. If the words "CNN" or "copywright infringement" don't get you excited, hopefully Craig's version will be able to suck you in...

Whoever says that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery has not met J.D. Salinger. The reclusive author of The Catcher in the Rye has resurfaced in the media. The purpose of his reappearance, however, is to stop a Swedish publishing company from resurrecting beloved fictional character, Holden Caulfield. The novel 60 Years Later: Coming Through the Rye, by a one J.D. California, describes an old “Mr. C” who flees his nursing home and roams the streets of New York. Salinger argues that the sequel is an instance of copyright infringement, while lawyers for the defense call the novel a work of “social science fiction!”

While I do understand Mr. Salinger's desire to protect his character and the legacy of his novel, I have some advice: lighten up! The 90-year old author has only given permission ONCE for an adaptation of a piece of his writing; and that was in 1949!!! He even turned down legendary film director Steven Spielberg’s requests to make Catcher into a movie. Steven Spielberg!? I guess I have to tip my hat to Salinger for having the guts to turn down the genius behind E.T. and Jurassic Park. Sure, Catcher in the Rye is often listed among the greatest English-language novels ever written. And, true, 99% of high school students will read it before they graduate. But can he be absolutely certain that adaptations and spin-offs will lessen the impact of the original? I don’t think so. If anything, I usually favor the book over the screen version anyway!

The novel is already available in Europe and the U.K., and it is scheduled for release in the United States in September. Salinger is asking that sales be halted and those books already distributed be recalled and destroyed! Destroyed? Seriously? For a 90-year old man, Salinger knows how to throw a tantrum. The real debate here is whether or not 60 Years Later is a parody or a rip-off. And, based on the arguments from both sides, I can't help but think that there’s a pretty fine line separating the two!

So, what's your verdict? Is Salinger unnecessarily and selfishly possessive of his novel? Or, is he nostalgic and protective? Whatever the case, it is likely that a courtroom battle royale is on the horizon. Now we just have to wait and see who shows up. Will Salinger venture out of his New Hampshire cave to defend Holden? Will J.D. California, the former gravedigger and triathlete turned author (according to his biography on Amazon!), show up to fight for his right to print? While we wait for the verdict I think I’ll get started on the Catcher prequel: "A Baby in the Rye: The Early Years." Just kidding, Mr. Salinger!