John Updike, born in Pennsylvania in 1932, published his book of short fiction, The Same Door, and his first novel, The Poorhouse Fair, in 1959. In the 1960's, 1970's, and early 1980's, Updike alternated successfully among novels, collections of stories, occasional verse, essays, and one play. ... A short story written in 1961 by Updike, A&P introduces readers to an adolescent who undergoes metamorphosis while working at the local grocery store. ... Sammy is a responsible young man with a respectable job at the local A&P grocery store. ... I enjoyed reading A&P and con...

• Word Count: 752
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School

The A&P John Updike uses Sammy's attitude toward the people and the town along with the setting of the dreary atmosphere of the A&P to exhibit his change from a young, immature boy to a man who is finally ready to experience the fruits of growing up. ... Updike uses two types of setting, beginning with a manufactured setting, the A&P. Sammy's job as a clerk at the A&P is of comfort and stability in a little, routine-oriented community just north of Boston. ...

• Word Count: 468
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

"A&P" Every story has a main character in which at some point in time has a crucial moment when an important decision must be made. ... A story written in 1961 by John Updike called "A&P," portrayed a young man leading the ordinary life as expected of an ordinary young man. ...

• Word Count: 843
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School