The life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid -...

author: Bill Bryson

This book is a memoir and a history lesson all in one. The last book I'd read by this author was about the history of English - this was very different.

Although we grew up at the same time (he's about a year older than I am), we lived in VERY different places. He's from Des Moines, Iowa... I'm from NYC. His grandparents lived in a very rural area - in a farmhouse... Mine lived in the Bronx.

I am sure he did a lot of research for this book as it's chock full of sociological details about the 1950's and the spread of change through the heartland.

It was a breezy, fun, quick book to read. I enjoyed it a lot.

Comments: 7

Chris W. Jul 29, 2009, 8:00am EDT

Bryson's funniest and most popular book is still "A walk in the woods", the story of his not very competent effort to walk the Appalachian trail. Thunderbolt Kid was one of his most personal efforts. I enjoyed it too.

Leslie ~ from NYC ~ R. Jul 29, 2009, 12:38pm EDT

I have to read THAT one! I've toyed with the idea of walking the Trail.. but it'll probably not be in THIS lifetime

Christine Zibas Jul 31, 2009, 12:49am EDT

I agree with Chris. I loved "A Walk in the Woods," and have given the book as a gift to others, who loved it as well.

Leslie ~ from NYC ~ R. Jul 31, 2009, 8:14am EDT

I've requested it already from the book exchange site.

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Kelly M. Jul 29, 2009, 6:17pm EDT

sounds like an interesting read...

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Christine Zibas Jul 31, 2009, 12:50am EDT

I was always turned off by the title of this book, but hearing what it's about and being from the Midwest, I just might overcome my aversion. Nice review.

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Christine Zibas Jul 31, 2009, 12:51am EDT

Thanks for posting your review to the Gather group, Bookin'.

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The life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid - book review

Comments: 7

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