Updike describes Rabbit Redux as "echoes and ramifications of the national and international disturbances that were so preoccupying in the late 60's." Thus questions about the novel's picture of America in turmoil should provoke a stimulating discussion.

Many critics have also focused on the role of the main character in the Rabbit series and have debated his response in this novel to the news of Apollo 11 and Vietnam.

1. Why does Updike narrate Rabbit Redux in the present tense? How does this strategy help to create a consciousness for the novel that hovers between author and character?

2. Does the realistic style of Rabbit Redux allow the novel to be read as a reflection of contemporary American history? How do echoes from newspapers and television bring another dimension to Updike's story?

3. How is space exploration used as a controlling metaphor to show the experience of Harry Angstrom? Why...