Rabbit Redux

by John Updike
Rabbit Redux cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Literary Fiction
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  • ID: 10469
  • Added: 2026-01-25
  • Updated: 2026-01-27
  • ISBN: 9780141188546
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2006-06-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Rabbit Redux follows Harry 'Rabbit' Angstrom as he navigates the tumultuous social changes of 1969 America. His wife, Janice, leaves him, and he finds solace in an affair with Jill, a runaway. However, their fragile relationship is disrupted when Jill invites her friend, Skeeter, a young black radical, to stay with them. The dynamic between the trio becomes increasingly complex, reflecting the broader societal upheavals of the time. John Updike's novel delves into themes of race, politics, and personal identity, capturing the spirit of the era. The story is a poignant exploration of a man struggling to reconcile his past with the rapidly changing world around him, making it a compelling read for those interested in literary fiction and historical context.

Reviews
Dave's Book Blog · Dave · 2024-09-26
provocative 3.50

The novel is challenging and provocative, dealing with themes of racism and misogyny. It is a powerful but difficult read due to its strong language and themes.

Dave found this novel to be a challenging and provocative read, tackling heavy themes such as racism and misogyny. The use of strong language, including multiple uses of the n-word and the c-word, makes it a difficult but powerful read. The author's exploration of these themes is unflinching and thought-provoking, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the societal issues of the time. While the content may be challenging, it is a testament to the author's courage and the novel's importance in addressing these critical issues.

Quick quotes

    It's a challenging novel, with racism and misogyny, including multiple uses of the n-word and the c-word.

    Some of the worst racist prejudices are on full display, making it a powerful but difficult read.

    The author's exploration of these themes is unflinching and thought-provoking.

The Guardian · 2015-05-25
compelling 4.50

The novel captures the essence of 1969 America with its social and political turmoil, making it a compelling read. The character of Janice is particularly noteworthy in this installment.

This novel is a standout in the series, set against the backdrop of 1969 America, a time marked by the Apollo moon landing, race riots, and the oil crisis. The author masterfully weaves these historical events into the narrative, creating a rich tapestry that reflects the societal anxieties of the era. The character of Janice, in particular, is brought to the forefront, adding depth and complexity to the story. The novel's exploration of personal and collective struggles makes it a timeless piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    In Rabbit Redux, my favourite, which is set in America in 1969 (the Apollo moon landing; race riots; the oil crisis etc), it's Janice who has ...

    The novel captures the essence of 1969 America with its social and political turmoil, making it a compelling read.

    The character of Janice is particularly noteworthy in this installment.

The New York Times · 2012-11-08
profound 4.50

The novel is a profound exploration of modern political and social issues, offering a prophetic view of the white working-class angst. It remains a relevant and illuminating read.

Published in 1971, this novel continues to be a beacon of insight into the political and social landscape of its time. The author's portrayal of the white working-class angst is both illuminating and prophetic, making the novel a timeless piece of literature. The narrative delves deep into the complexities of race, class, and personal identity, offering a nuanced perspective that resonates even today. The novel's relevance and depth make it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the socio-political dynamics of the era.

Quick quotes

    John Updike's 1971 novel 'Rabbit Redux' remains the most illuminating and prophetic of modern political novels.

    The novel is a profound exploration of modern political and social issues, offering a prophetic view of the white working-class angst.

    It remains a relevant and illuminating read.

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