Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Synopsis
Bawdy, hilarious, and brisk, The Secret of Life tours the sixties with Conrad Bunger, alter ego of award-winning cyberpunk Rudy Rucker. Almost suicidally reckless, Conrad doesn't seem destined to reach legal drinking age. However, thanks to the supernatural powers he manifests when in crisis, not even the most severe mishaps interrupt his quest for booze, girls, and enlightenment. From a Catholic high school to college, he gradually awakens to his secret identity as an energy being from outer space. His solemn commission: to proceed incognito and return with the ultimate prize -- knowledge of the Secret of Life. Problem is, he's having too darn much fun to keep it together.
The Secret of Life: content & age rating
Intended for adult readers (18+).
This novel features a reckless protagonist pursuing alcohol, sexual encounters, and enlightenment through the 1960s counterculture, with mature themes including substance abuse and explicit behavior.
What to know going in
This book has mild violence, moderate sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include substance abuse and addiction.
Who'll love this
Adult readers will enjoy this humorous autobiographical coming-of-age story set in the wild sixties with a cosmic twist.