John Updike
John Updike was an American novelist, poet, short story writer, art critic, and literary critic. He is best known for his Rabbit series, which chronicles the life of Harry 'Rabbit' Angstrom over several decades.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Rabbit, Run
The novel follows the life of a 26-year-old former high school basketball star, who is dissatisfied with his current life. He impulsively leaves his wife and son and embarks on a journey in the hopes of finding a more meaningful existence. His decisions, however, lead to a series of tragic events that impact the lives of those around him. This mid-20th-century novel explores themes of freedom, responsibility, and the tragic consequences of impulsive decisions.
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2. Rabbit Redux
The novel is a sequel in a series following the life of Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom, a middle-aged man living in a small Pennsylvania town. When his wife leaves him for another man, he finds himself alone and struggling to make sense of the rapidly changing world around him. In his loneliness, he takes in a young runaway and her racially divisive boyfriend, leading to a series of events that force Rabbit to confront his own prejudices and fears. The book is a vivid portrayal of the American social and political climate of the 1960s.
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3. Rabbit Is Rich
The book follows the life of a former high school basketball star, who is now in his mid-forties and has inherited a Toyota dealership from his father-in-law. He is living a comfortable life with his wife and son in Brewer, Pennsylvania during the late 1970s. The story unfolds as he navigates through his midlife crisis, dealing with his rebellious son, his longing for his old mistress, and his own insecurities and dissatisfaction. The narrative provides a deep dive into the protagonist's thoughts and feelings, offering a detailed examination of middle-class American life during this era.
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4. Rabbit at Rest
The novel is a final look into the life of Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom, a former high-school basketball star, now in his mid-fifties, overweight and grappling with several health issues. Despite his success in business, his personal life is in shambles, with his wife addicted to alcohol and his son to drugs. Harry, struggling with his mortality, is trying to understand his past and make sense of his future, while dealing with the changing American society and the consequences of his own choices.
The 784th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
5. Couples
This novel delves into the intricate and often tumultuous relationships among ten couples in the suburban New England community of Tarbox. Set in the mid-20th century, the narrative explores themes of infidelity, the complexities of marriage, and the search for personal fulfillment against the backdrop of societal expectations. Through the lens of these intertwined relationships, the book examines the moral and social dilemmas faced by its characters, offering a candid and sometimes controversial portrayal of the sexual mores and cultural dynamics of its time.
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6. The Witches Of Eastwick
In a quaint Rhode Island town, three divorced women discover their shared supernatural abilities and form a coven of witches. Their lives are upended with the arrival of a mysterious and charismatic stranger who seduces each of them, stoking their powers and ambitions. As the women navigate their complex relationships with this man and each other, they confront the conservative mores of their community, leading to a series of conflicts and transformations that challenge their notions of female independence and power. The novel explores themes of sexuality, feminism, and the dynamics of social conformity through the lens of magical realism.
The 2191st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
7. Pigeon Feathers And Other Stories
This collection of short stories delves into the intricacies of American life, examining the personal struggles and inner lives of ordinary individuals as they confront the complexities of existence. Through a series of vividly rendered tales, the author explores themes of faith, mortality, and the search for meaning in the mundane. The stories are marked by their acute psychological insight and the author's distinctive prose, which captures the nuances of his characters' experiences, whether they are a young boy grappling with religious doubt or adults navigating the subtleties of love, loss, and identity.
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8. The Poorhouse Fair
The novel revolves around the residents of a poorhouse (a government-run facility for the destitute and elderly) in a small town. The narrative primarily focuses on the interactions between the residents and the young, ambitious prefect during an annual fair. The book is a profound exploration of aging, memory, dignity, and the clash between the old and new generations. The fair becomes a battleground where different philosophies of life and attitudes towards progress are debated and tested.
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9. Bech Is Back
In "Bech Is Back," the protagonist, a Jewish-American writer named Henry Bech, experiences a revival of his career after a period of creative stagnancy. Throughout the novel, Bech travels the world, from Europe to communist countries, grappling with the challenges of literary fame, cultural differences, and personal inadequacies. The narrative combines humor and satire to explore the complexities of literary life and the peculiarities of Bech's character, offering a sharp critique of both the literary establishment and international cultural politics.
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10. Hugging The Shore
Essays and Criticism
"Hugging the Shore" is a collection of essays and criticism that offers an insightful exploration into various aspects of literature, art, and culture. The book compiles reviews, prefaces, and occasional pieces that delve into the works of numerous authors, poets, and artists, reflecting the author's broad literary tastes and deep understanding of the subjects. The essays are marked by their eloquence, sharp analysis, and the author's personal reflections, providing readers with a rich tapestry of intellectual engagement with the arts. Through this compilation, the author not only critiques but also celebrates the diversity and complexity of literary and artistic expression.
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11. Roger's Version
"Roger's Version" delves into the life of Roger Lambert, a theology professor who becomes entangled in a debate about the existence of God with Dale Kohler, a young student of computer science. Dale believes that computer technology can prove the existence of divine intervention in the creation of the universe, leading to a complex interplay of faith, science, and human relationships. As Roger becomes increasingly involved with Dale and his project, the novel explores themes of infidelity, personal morality, and the intricate dynamics of human belief and skepticism.
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12. The Centaur
The novel follows the life of George Caldwell, a high school teacher in a small town in Pennsylvania, who is struggling with feelings of disappointment and failure. He is constantly compared to his father, a mythological centaur, symbolizing the conflict between the mundane and the extraordinary. The narrative alternates between the modern world and the mythological realm, exploring themes of identity, disillusionment, and the struggle between the human and the divine.
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13. Toward The End Of Time
Set in post-apocalyptic 2020 America after a devastating war between the United States and China, the novel explores the life of a retired investment advisor named Ben Turnbull. As he navigates through the chaos of a collapsed society and the decay of his own aging body, Ben grapples with his relationships, particularly with his younger wife, and his own existential reflections. The narrative delves into themes of mortality, the nature of reality, and the human condition, all set against a backdrop of a world struggling to rebuild itself amidst technological and natural decline.
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14. The Coup
"The Coup" is a satirical novel that tells the story of Colonel Hakim Félix Ellelou, the ruler of a small, fictional, underdeveloped African nation. The narrative, delivered through Ellelou's first-person perspective, explores his anti-Western sentiments, his struggles with modernity and development, and his complex personal life, including his relationships with his four wives. The novel presents a critique of both Western imperialism and African dictatorships, using humor and wit to examine the complexities of global politics.
The 13608th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
15. The Maples Stories
"The Maples Stories" is a collection of short stories that intricately explores the complexities of marriage and relationships through the lives of Richard and Joan Maple. Over the course of several decades, the stories trace the nuances of their marriage, from the blossoming of their youthful love to the disintegration of their bond and eventual divorce. The narrative captures the shifting dynamics and emotional landscapes of the couple as they navigate the trials of raising children, infidelity, and the search for individual identity within the confines of a long-term, evolving relationship.
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16. Gertrude And Claudius
Set before the events of the well-known revenge tragedy, the novel imagines the tangled courtship and marriage of Gertrude and Claudius, tracing Claudius’s rise from insecure nobleman to calculating ruler and Gertrude’s conflicted affections and moral ambiguity. Their illicit affair, political maneuvering, and the clandestine killing of the reigning king are depicted with psychological detail, showing how desire, ambition, and regret shape their choices and the fate of the Danish court. Rich in period atmosphere and interior monologue, the narrative humanizes both protagonists and reframes the familiar tragedy’s origins.
The 14419th Greatest Book of All Time -
17. The Early Stories
"The Early Stories" is a compilation of short stories that provide a vivid depiction of post-war America. The narratives cover a wide range of topics, including love, marriage, death, and faith, all told through the experiences of the ordinary middle-class citizen. The stories are praised for their insightful exploration of human nature and the complexities of everyday life.
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18. Rabbit Angstrom
The Four Novels
Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century America, this novel chronicles the life of a former high school basketball star as he grapples with the complexities of adulthood. Caught in a cycle of disillusionment and yearning, he struggles to find meaning in his suburban existence, navigating the challenges of marriage, fatherhood, and personal ambition. Through a series of poignant and often tumultuous events, the protagonist's journey reflects the broader societal shifts and personal dilemmas of the era, offering a vivid exploration of identity, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness.
The 15811th Greatest Book of All Time -
19. Self-Consciousness
"Self-Consciousness" is a memoir that delves into the personal life of a renowned author, exploring his childhood, his relationship with his parents, his struggles with psoriasis and stuttering, as well as his religious beliefs and views on death. The author's reflections on his life are deeply personal, introspective, and filled with a sense of vulnerability, providing an intimate look into his experiences and thought processes. The book offers an insightful exploration of the author's self-consciousness and how it has shaped his life and work.
The 17113th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
20. Golf Dreams
Writings on Golf
This collection of essays and stories captures the whimsical and philosophical musings of a passionate golfer, exploring the sport's intricate relationship with life and human nature. Through a blend of humor, nostalgia, and keen observation, the narrative delves into the joys and frustrations of the game, revealing how golf serves as a metaphor for the broader human experience. The author reflects on personal anecdotes, the evolution of the sport, and the unique camaraderie it fosters, offering readers a heartfelt and insightful glimpse into the world of golf.
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21. Rich In Russia
The book explores the life of an American businessman navigating the complexities of post-Soviet Russia's economic landscape. As he attempts to capitalize on the country's burgeoning opportunities, he encounters a mix of corruption, cultural clashes, and personal dilemmas. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, morality, and the clash between Western capitalism and Russian tradition, painting a vivid picture of a nation in transition and the personal costs of pursuing wealth in such a volatile environment.
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22. In The Beauty Of The Lilies
The novel explores the lives of four generations of the Wilmot family, beginning with Clarence Wilmot, a Presbyterian minister who loses his faith in the early 20th century. As Clarence grapples with his crisis of belief, his descendants navigate their own struggles with identity, purpose, and the changing American landscape. The story delves into themes of faith, ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream, weaving a rich tapestry of personal and societal transformation over the decades. Through the family's experiences, the novel examines the interplay between religion, culture, and individual aspirations.
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23. Just Looking
Essays on Art
This collection of essays offers a reflective and insightful exploration of American art and culture through the lens of various artists and their works. The author delves into the intricacies of visual perception, examining how art captures the essence of everyday life and the subtle nuances that define human experience. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for artistic expression, the essays traverse a diverse range of subjects, from the iconic to the obscure, inviting readers to engage with art in a more profound and personal way.
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24. Terrorist
Set in a post-9/11 world, the narrative follows Ahmad, a high school student in New Jersey, who is drawn into the world of radical Islam. As he grapples with his identity and faith, Ahmad becomes increasingly influenced by his charismatic imam, who steers him towards a path of extremism. The story delves into the complexities of cultural assimilation, the allure of fundamentalism, and the internal conflicts faced by a young man caught between two worlds. Through a series of tense and thought-provoking events, the novel explores the broader themes of fear, misunderstanding, and the search for meaning in a fractured society.
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25. Marry Me
A Romance
Set in the suburban landscape of 1960s Connecticut, this novel delves into the complexities of love, marriage, and infidelity. The story revolves around two couples, Jerry and Ruth, and Sally and Richard, whose lives become intricately intertwined through a series of clandestine affairs and emotional entanglements. As the characters grapple with their desires and moral dilemmas, the narrative explores themes of longing, betrayal, and the search for personal fulfillment amidst the constraints of societal expectations. Through vivid character portrayals and keen observations, the novel offers a poignant reflection on the human condition and the intricate dance of relationships.
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26. Trust Me
A collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the search for meaning in everyday life. Each story presents a vivid snapshot of characters navigating the intricacies of trust and deception, often revealing the underlying tensions and unspoken emotions that shape their interactions. The narratives are rich with Updike's keen observations and nuanced prose, offering a poignant reflection on the fragility and resilience of the human spirit.
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27. Brazil.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Brazil, this novel weaves a passionate and tumultuous love story between Tristão, a poor black boy from the favelas, and Isabel, a privileged white girl from a wealthy family. Their romance defies societal norms and expectations, leading them on a journey through the diverse landscapes and cultures of Brazil. As they navigate the challenges of class, race, and destiny, their relationship is tested by external forces and internal conflicts, reflecting the complexities of love and identity in a rapidly changing world.
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28. Bech At Bay
A Quasi-Novel
In this witty and introspective novel, the protagonist, a once-celebrated Jewish-American writer, navigates the complexities of aging, fame, and creativity in the twilight of his career. As he grapples with the changing literary landscape and his own diminishing relevance, he embarks on a series of adventures and misadventures, both personal and professional. Through a blend of humor and poignancy, the narrative explores themes of identity, legacy, and the relentless passage of time, offering a sharp yet compassionate look at the trials and triumphs of a writer's life.
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29. Rabbit Remembered
In this poignant novella, the narrative revisits the lives of the Angstrom family, focusing on the aftermath of the death of their patriarch, Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom. Set a decade after his passing, the story delves into the complexities of familial relationships as Harry's son, Nelson, grapples with his father's legacy and the unexpected arrival of Annabelle, a woman claiming to be Harry's illegitimate daughter. Through a series of revelations and reconciliations, the characters confront their past grievances and seek a sense of closure, exploring themes of forgiveness, identity, and the enduring impact of family bonds.
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30. Pygmalion
In a captivating exploration of transformation and identity, the story follows the journey of a young woman who is taken under the wing of a skilled phonetics professor. As she undergoes a rigorous transformation from a humble flower girl to a refined lady of society, the narrative delves into themes of class, power dynamics, and the essence of self-worth. The evolving relationship between the mentor and his protégé challenges societal norms and expectations, ultimately questioning whether true change is merely superficial or deeply ingrained.
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31. The Best American Short Stories Of The Century
This anthology is a rich tapestry of American life and literature, showcasing a century's worth of short stories that capture the diverse voices and experiences of the nation. Each story, carefully selected, reflects the evolving cultural, social, and emotional landscapes of the 20th century, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of human nature and the American spirit. From tales of love and loss to explorations of identity and belonging, this collection celebrates the art of storytelling and the enduring power of the written word.
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32. S.
A compelling narrative unfolds through a series of letters written by a woman who has left her conventional life behind to join a spiritual commune in Arizona. Her correspondence reveals her journey of self-discovery and transformation, as she grapples with the complexities of love, identity, and independence. The letters provide a candid and often humorous insight into her evolving perspective on life, relationships, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, painting a vivid picture of her quest for meaning beyond the confines of societal expectations.
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33. Your Lover Just Called
In this intriguing narrative, the complexities of modern relationships are explored through the lens of a seemingly ordinary phone call that unravels a web of emotions, secrets, and desires. The story delves into the lives of its characters, revealing the intricate dance between fidelity and temptation, as well as the profound impact of communication—or the lack thereof—on personal connections. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human nature, the narrative captures the essence of love, trust, and the inevitable challenges that accompany them.
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34. Twin Beds In Rome
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35. Giving Blood
This collection of short stories delves into the intricacies of human relationships and the subtle complexities of everyday life. Through a series of vignettes, the narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, capturing the essence of ordinary moments with extraordinary insight. Each story is a window into the characters' inner worlds, revealing their hopes, fears, and desires with a delicate balance of humor and poignancy. The writing is characterized by its keen observations and lyrical prose, offering readers a profound reflection on the human condition.
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36. Wife Wooing
Set against the backdrop of a snowy New England evening, this introspective narrative delves into the complexities of marriage through the lens of a husband's reflections. As he observes his wife and children during a family dinner, he is swept away by a wave of nostalgia and affection, contemplating the passage of time and the evolving dynamics of love and companionship. The story captures the tender, often unspoken moments that define a long-term relationship, blending humor and poignancy to explore the intricate dance of intimacy and routine in everyday life.
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37. Snowing In Greenwich Village
Set against the backdrop of a snowy evening in New York City, this narrative delves into the complexities of marital dynamics and the subtle tensions that arise from unexpected encounters. The story unfolds in a cozy apartment where a young couple entertains a visiting friend, leading to a series of interactions that reveal underlying desires and unspoken emotions. Through sharp dialogue and keen observations, the tale captures the nuances of human relationships, exploring themes of fidelity, temptation, and the delicate balance between personal freedom and commitment.
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38. Coelho Corre
In this compelling narrative, the protagonist grapples with the complexities of middle age, reflecting on past decisions and the relentless passage of time. As he navigates the challenges of personal relationships and societal expectations, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking meaning and fulfillment in a world that often feels disjointed and unforgiving. The story delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of identity, regret, and the pursuit of happiness amidst life's inevitable uncertainties.
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39. The Complete Henry Bech
A collection of interlinked stories chronicling a curmaceous, often irritable but oddly resilient American novelist whose misadventures in love, fame, work and aging are recounted with dry, self-mocking humor; the pieces follow his uneasy relationship to the literary world, war and mortality while satirizing the ambitions and vanities of writers and readers alike.
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40. Seek My Face
An aging, celebrated painter looks back on a life shaped by creative ambition, intimate entanglements, and the compromises of fame, recounting memories of artistic breakthroughs, romantic affairs, family ties, and the shifting cultural landscape that defined her work and identity across the twentieth century.
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41. Selected Letters Of John Updike
A richly candid selection of personal correspondence that traces a writer’s life and career across six decades, revealing the habits, doubts, pleasures, and moral concerns that undergird his fiction and criticism; the letters move between intimate family matters and lively exchanges with fellow writers and editors, offering sharp, witty judgments on literature and culture, frank reflections on faith, desire, aging, and mortality, and practical commentary on craft and publication—together they form an informal autobiography that illuminates both the public persona and the private person behind a prolific body of work.
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42. Frühe Erzählungen 2
A collection of early short stories that examines mid-20th-century American small-town and suburban life through keen, elegant prose; ordinary characters—spouses, lovers, clerics, neighbors—grapple with sexual longing, moral uncertainty, domestic boredom and fleeting transcendence, and the stories balance irony and tenderness while tracing how desire, faith, art and mortality shape everyday existence.
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43. Sucht Mein Angesicht
An aging, celebrated portrait painter’s life and work are revisited through the memories and conversations of those who knew her, as secrets, affairs and the compromises of a long career surface; the narrative examines art, fame, memory and the fraught intimacy between artist and admirer, asking how much of a person can be captured on canvas or in another’s retelling.
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45. The Widows Of Eastwick
Decades after their supernatural youth, three once-powerful women in a small New England town—now widowed—reunite to confront aging, grief, and the complicated legacy of their past lives. When a magnetic younger man arrives, old appetites for power, resentment, and desire are stirred, forcing them to reckon with long-buried secrets, the limits of friendship, and the ways memory and mortality reshape identity. Wry, elegiac, and darkly comic, the story probes loss, female solidarity, and the uneasy intersection of ordinary lives with lingering magic.
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46. Picked Up Pieces
A collection of essays and literary criticism that blends sharp cultural observation, personal memoir, and close readings of other writers; the pieces range from reviews of contemporary literature and art to intimate reflections on family, faith, and the small rituals of everyday life. With elegant, conversational prose and wry insight, the writer examines the American experience, mortality, and the craft of writing, offering both erudite commentary and candid autobiographical moments. The tone moves between affectionate humor and serious contemplation, making the volume a compact showcase of stylistic finesse and humane intelligence.
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47. Odd Jobs
A lively collection of short essays and sketches that takes a close, often wry look at a variety of everyday occupations and small-scale tasks, using them as springboards for broader meditations on craftsmanship, the dignity and absurdity of labor, and the writer’s place among ordinary American lives. With a keen eye for detail, quiet humor, and warm nostalgia, the pieces shift between reportage, personal anecdote, and literary observation, turning encounters with tradespeople and odd jobs into reflections on creativity, social change, and the passage of time.
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48. Due Considerations
A collection of incisive essays and criticism in which a deftly observant voice examines literature, art, and contemporary life, blending close readings of other writers with personal reflection, stylistic finesse, wit, and moral seriousness to illuminate the pleasures and anxieties of reading, writing, aging, and belief in modern America.
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49. More Matter
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