What is "Checkouts" by Cynthia Rylant?

"Checkouts" is a short story written by renowned children's author Cynthia Rylant. The short story follows a girl and a bag boy who works at the local grocery store.

"Checkouts" is a story about a missed connection between two people: a girl and a grocery store bag boy. The narrator provides the perspectives of both characters as certain events unfold.

While waiting in line, the girl catches the bag boy's eye and he accidentally drops a jar of mayonnaise. They both fall in love with each other in that moment, but do not pursue a relationship due to shyness and embarrassment.

The story is a commentary on human connections, feelings and impulses.