cover image The Unicorn's Secret: Murder in the Age of Aquarius: A True Story

The Unicorn's Secret: Murder in the Age of Aquarius: A True Story

Steven Levy. Prentice Hall, $18.95 (352pp) ISBN 978-0-13-937830-0

In the 1960s Ira Einhorn (``one-horn'' = Unicorn) made a reputation as ``the'' spokesman for the counterculture in Philadelphia. Brilliantly articulate, this teacher at the experimental Free University found a wide audience for his advocacy of nonviolence, drug-taking and sexual freedom. As the '60s waned, he converted his public persona into that of a guru of environmentalism and paranormal experiences, developing a network of influential contacts, shows Levy ( Hackers ) in this spellbinding sociological/true-crime study. One of those who fell under his spell was Holly Maddux, a beauty from Texas. After a stormy relationship of several years, she disappeared; almost two years later, in 1979, her mummified body was found in Einhorn's closet. The guru was arrested, skipped bail, presumably fled the country and is still at large. Photos. First serial to Esquire; author tour. (October)