The term "bildungsroman" refers to a coming-of-age novel that focuses on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist from childhood to adulthood. These stories often trace the protagonist's journey of self-discovery, as they grapple with questions of identity, purpose, and the complexities of life. Common themes in bildungsroman novels include the conflict between the individual and society, the struggle for self- acceptance, and the search for meaning in a confusing and often hostile world. Examples of bildungsroman novels include J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye," Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," and Charles Dickens" "Great Expectations."