Merrill's story was published at a time of growing unrest in the United States when people were joining various activist groups to protest what they perceived as social injustices. Merrill reveals to the reader how a small problem can escalate into a large, ugly conflict that eventually involves the larger population and affects an entire city.

She demonstrates how people can be manipulated by various outside pressures into accepting a certain point of view. She is sympathetic to the uniqueness of the individual and respectful of the courage it takes to join together and fight for one's ideals.

The use of a strong female protagonist is welcome. General Anna is assertive, courageous, and admired by her male counterparts. The other important female character in the story, Wenda Gambling, is a stereotype that pokes fun at movie stars, not necessarily at womanhood.

The Pushcart War is a...