"The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" is a memoir written by the American author Bill Bryson. In this book, Bryson recounts his childhood experiences growing up in Des Moines, Iowa, during the 1950s. The title "Thunderbolt Kid" refers to his childhood alter ego, a superhero persona he created for himself. Throughout the memoir, Bryson provides humorous and nostalgic anecdotes about his family, friends, and the cultural landscape of mid-20th-century America. He explores various aspects of 1950s American life, including popular culture, technology, and societal norms, through the lens of his own memories. Bryson's writing style is characterized by wit, charm, and keen observation, making the book both entertaining and informative. "The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" offers readers a delightful journey into the past, filled with humor, nostalgia, and insights into the quirks of childhood and the era in which Bryson grew up.