Perhaps for me the impact is more personal.  I share the famed authors last name.  Since I can remember my father has always kept a collection of Updikes works and boasted about the uncanny family resemblence.  He told me growing up that we were no doubt related and to look at his picture he looks almost exactly like my grandfather, Thomas Updike Sr.  I wrote my first book report in the fifth grade and chose Rabbits Run.  I was so proud to read my book report outloud and to say his name alongside mine.  Of course, at the time, all I gleaned from the book was something about a mid-life crisis and basketball.  So for me, it seems today that I lost a far off relative I never got to meet.  I am sure, that one day I will meet him, although it may be a while (at least I hope so!)  Thank you for letting me share my thoughts today.