"Rabbit Redux" is the sequel to John Updike's "Rabbit, Run," and continues the story of Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom as he navigates the complexities of adulthood. Set in the 1970s, Rabbit is now married to Janice and raising their children amid a changing societal landscape. The novel delves into his personal struggles, revealing his discontent and midlife crisis as he grapples with the responsibilities of family life while yearning for freedom and excitement.
The narrative introduces a range of characters who challenge and impact Rabbit's life, including a young black man named Skeeter, who becomes a significant influence. The interactions between Rabbit and Skeeter reflect the racial tensions and cultural shifts of the era. Rabbit’s affair with a young woman named Jill also highlights his quest for meaning and escape from his mundane reality, emphasizing the theme of desire and the search for identity.