The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid

by Bill Bryson
The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Biography and Memoir
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  • ID: 10548
  • Added: 2026-01-25
  • Updated: 2026-01-25
  • ISBN: 9780552772549
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2007-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

In this deeply personal and hilarious memoir, Bill Bryson revisits his childhood in the 1950s, offering a nostalgic and often amusing look at growing up in Middle America. He paints a vivid picture of a time when everything seemed good for you, from DDT to nuclear fallout, and shares stories that will resonate with anyone who has ever been young./n/nBryson's unique perspective and sharp humor make this more than just a personal story; it's a universal journey that captures the essence of growing up. His observations about family, friends, and the curious world of his youth are both heartwarming and laugh-out-loud funny, making it a book that will speak to readers of all ages.

Reviews
Harry Mottram · Harry Mottram · 2024-01-05
compelling 4.50

Bryson's humor and storytelling keep the pages turning, making this memoir a compelling read. The punchlines and witty observations add to the enjoyment.

This memoir is a delightful journey through the author's childhood in the 1950s. The book is filled with humorous anecdotes and witty observations that make it a compelling read. The author's ability to capture the essence of growing up in a bygone era is truly remarkable. The humor and storytelling prowess of the author keep the pages turning, making this memoir a standout in the genre. It's a book that will appeal to anyone who enjoys a good laugh and a well-told story.

Quick quotes

    This is the third volume of Bryson's I've read and his humour and story telling are what keeps the pages turning.

    The punchlines at the end of each chapter are a joy to read.

    Bryson's ability to capture the essence of growing up in the 1950s is truly remarkable.

Goodreads · 2006-01-01
delightful 4.00

This memoir is delightful, hilarious, and charming, capturing the essence of growing up in a bygone era. The nostalgia and humor make it a joy to read.

This memoir is a heartwarming and humorous journey through the author's childhood in the 1950s. The book is filled with anecdotes that are both endearing and laugh-out-loud funny, making it a delightful read. The author's ability to evoke nostalgia and capture the spirit of the times is truly commendable. It's a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever looked back on their own childhood with a sense of wonder and amusement.

Quick quotes

    Like every other Bill Bryson book I've read, this one is utterly delightful, hilarious, endearing and charming.

    I'm sure my husband grew tired of hearing me laugh out loud as I read this book.

    The stories are told with a warmth and humor that make you feel like you're sitting across the table from the author, sharing a cup of coffee and a good laugh.

Amazon · 2006-01-01
entertaining 4.50

This book is a truly entertaining memoir that showcases the author's humor and storytelling prowess. It's a must-read for fans of Bill Bryson.

This memoir is a laugh-out-loud journey through the author's childhood in Des Moines, Iowa. The book is filled with witty observations and humorous anecdotes that make it a truly entertaining read. The author's ability to capture the essence of growing up in the 1950s is truly remarkable. It's a book that will appeal to anyone who enjoys a good laugh and a well-told story. The author's unique perspective and engaging writing style make this memoir a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

    This book had me in fits.....of laughter.

    It is a truly entertaining memoir.

    I'm a a Bill Bryson fan and this book shows Bill at his very best.

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