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About the Author
Larry Gottlieb completed his undergraduate work in physics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1967 and master’s degree in x-ray astronomy at the University of California, San Diego, in 1969. He has self-published two non-fiction books about the intersection of physics and spirituality, The Seer’s Explanation (2013) and Hoodwinked: Exploring Our Culture’s Profound Illusions (2023). With the experience of numerous trips down the Grand Canyon and other rivers in the Western United States, Katherine enjoyed the writing exercise of reliving some of her adventures. Together we have crafted a simple but timely and compelling story about the power of self-discovery in a beautiful and natural environment.
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In "Secrets of the River," authors Larry Gottlieb and Katherine Knickerbocker take readers on a transformative ten-day rafting expedition. Five city-dwellers, seeking more than just thrills, venture into the untamed wilderness under the guidance of an experienced river guide. As they navigate the river’s challenges—both physical and emotional—the group confronts personal fears, uncovers hidden strengths, and forges deep connections. The river’s powerful currents become a metaphor for the unpredictable journey of life, leading each traveler toward clarity and self-discovery. Through breathtaking landscapes and life-altering experiences, "Secrets of the River" is a compelling tale of adventure and introspection.
Larry Gottlieb, a physicist with degrees from MIT and UC San Diego, has authored two non-fiction books exploring the intersection of science and spirituality. Katherine Knickerbocker, an experienced river rafter, draws on her adventures to bring authenticity to their collaboration. Together, they create a narrative that blends intellectual depth with the raw beauty of nature.
"Secrets of the River" has a unique blend of adventure, personal growth, and introspective insight. The story offers more than just an outdoor escapade; it is a journey into the human spirit, set against the backdrop of nature’s grandeur. Ideal for those who love adventure, self-discovery, and stories that resonate long after the last page, this book invites readers to embark on a voyage of the soul.
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“So many of us are adrift on an endless river of doubt, questioning our place in the world. Secrets of the River offers all of us the opportunity to reach deeper and open to the lessons shared by conscious 'river guides.'” -Jeanne S.
“While on my interminable and unscheduled flight, compliments of our thoroughly broken airline industry, recently, my frustration was assuaged by a good read. The novel was “Secrets of the River.” … I don’t do much reading for enjoyment these days. Mostly, I read newspapers and emails. That’s gotten awfully depressing. Larry and Kay’s book is enlightening, thought provoking and eminently enjoyable … A lot of philosophy, psychology and physics in these pages, everything from existentialism to Carl Jung to quantum physics to A Yaqui Way of Knowledge. It’s about five total strangers from an unspecified city who take a raft trip down an unspecified river with a mysterious and omniscient guide known only as Skip, a psychologist and a physicist. Their discussions and the relationships that develop are fascinating. There’s a surprise at the end I won’t spoil for you.” —Fred Malo Jr., Carbondale
“This book doesn't read like an escape - it reads like a return. To stillness, to truth, to something essential. [The authors] have captured not just the power of nature, but the way it humbles us, changes us, and sometimes gives us back to ourselves.” -Alma F.
“This cast of characters kept me engaged with each adventure. The existential questions! My heavy underlining! Secrets of the River was my constant companion and will be revisited often.” —X. Bartlett
“I’m loving your book. Thank you!! What a gift.” —Jane K.
“I took my time reading this book, and found myself enjoying a pleasant glide down what felt like a very real river trip. I was able to effortlessly imagine myself on the raft, and in camp, along with the characters, enjoying the views and the camaraderie along the way.
This book is more than a simple parable. I found the characters to be friendly and relatable, bringing Larry's spiritual lessons to life in a well-paced and believable way. As a longtime friend of the author's, I also enjoyed the many casual anecdotes from Larry's own personal life that were sprinkled masterfully into the mix, making the storytelling refreshingly real as well as enlightening. Secrets of the River is a good read! If you are like me, you will come away from this trip relaxed, uplifted, and interested in looking at the world, and your place in it, from a fresh perspective.” —Jan G.
