Raised by Mountains, Schooled by Life
The Storytelling of Richard Roberts
6 x 0.12 x 9 inches
LATEST RELEASE BY RICHARD ROBERTS
Stories of NASCAR in the Rear View Mirror
True Stories of NASCAR Racing
In Stories of NASCAR in the Rear View Mirror, Richard Roberts offers a captivating memoir that delves into his personal journey through the world of NASCAR. From the adrenaline-pumping experience of his first NASCAR race to the historic moment of the first televised NASCAR event, Roberts provides readers with an insider's perspective on the evolution of stock car racing. Through a series of true stories, Roberts shares the challenges, triumphs, and behind-the-scenes intricacies of the racing business. His narrative not only chronicles significant milestones in NASCAR history but also paints a vivid picture of the sport's growth and the personalities that have shaped it. This collection serves as both a personal memoir and a tribute to the enduring spirit of NASCAR, making it a must-read for racing enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
OTHER WORK BY RICHARD ROBERTS
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Jean was a woman born into a blue-collar family in Illinois. She never wanted anything she did not earn. But if she earned it, she wanted it. Her size was always a problem since she was genetically predisposed to gain weight. Early as a young woman she set up her life goals; she wanted to have $1,000,000 in the bank, and to weight under 200 lbs. This is a story of how she reached both goals.
Plowing with a horse, making molasses, washing clothes outside over an open fire, being educated in one-room schools, peddling farm products house to house. All these things and much more helped raise this child in the remote mountains of Fayette County, West Virginia in the 1940's, as told by Richard Roberts, this is an excellent read for those interested in knowing or remembering how it used to be, and for the young to explore how life was before cell phones, or even TV.
In just six pages, this small book delivers big wisdom. Thoughts for Today and Tomorrow is a collection of earthy, insightful reflections on life, carefully curated and presented by Richard Roberts. The book offers a series of simple, one-sentence thoughts—each a spark of encouragement, clarity, or quiet humor—perfect for daily reflection or thoughtful gifting.
Coming Soon
Raising Richard
COMING SOON!
In this candid memoir, Richard shares his life story with the warmth of a personal conversation. Born to a mother pregnant outside her marriage, he was raised by loving grandparents during WWII before joining his mother and father in a new family. His journey weaves together moments of joy, hardship, and discovery—stories that are at times sad, at times humorous, and always deeply human. Alongside his personal experiences, Richard offers a vivid portrait of American life in the ’40s and ’50s. Available for readings and book signings.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING
Reviews
Re: Thoughts for Today ...
What insightful and provocative words, found on pages 1-4!
Some people talk a lot and end up saying nothing.
Mr. Roberts, on these pages (Thoughts for Today …), uses just a few words BUT reaches immediately and directly, right into the heart and soul. What a pleasure and treasure, to gift us so much, with such simplicity.
Four pages of bite-sized nuggets, and enough “food for thought” to carry one through a long winter, or, any season in one’s life.
Very provocative and reflective, and I’m only 83 journeys around the sun myself.
The Stories of NASCAR in the Rear View Mirror
I had the pleasure of meeting Richard at the Martinsburg farmer’s market and getting to know him. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as a young fan of Nascar. The stories were very interesting and it opens your eyes to how much has changed in this sport over the years.
Rich Poor Girl
This is a wonderful story. I was captivated as soon as I started the book. Richard Roberts has
such an easy-to-read writing style. He provides so much information in a simple, straightforward
manner and keeps me engaged in the story. Hope there will be another book!
My Screwed Up Life in the Rear View Mirror
I found this book to be a wonderful and enjoyable sequel to “West Virginia in the Rear View Mirror”. Once again Richard Roberts’ easy-to-read writing style engaged me immediately. So much of his growing up reminds me of my own early life. He writes honestly, sharing many details of his “screwed up life” without burdening the reader with heavy feelings. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and hope he will continue to write. Thank you!
Stories of NASCAR in the Rear View Mirror
I met Richard Roberts at the Lewisburg Literary Festival 2025. He talked with me about NASCAR and although I have never really been interested or followed it, I decided to read his memoir.
What a pleasure to read this story and his memories about working with NASCAR. Once I started the book I was hooked. Lots of fun.
West Virginia in the Rear View Mirror
This book was a delightful read….told simply with honesty and humor. It’s obvious how much
Richard Roberts loved his grandparents and Fayette County, West Va.. Richard is a wonderful
storyteller and shared special memories of his childhood. Thank you!
Down Home Charm
Richard’s writing style is very appealing to the average Amercian Joe. It’s captivating and intriguing with simple grammar. He allows the reader to feel and see the innerworkings of his heart! Very enjoyable reads! I’ve read them all!
Great Read!
Jean lived an interesting life of frugality and business acumen. She worked hard to get what she wanted and didn’t compromise. This is a quick, insightful read into the life of a simple woman who lived life her way.
Excellent Read
Richard provides a wonderful story telling style. I just finished reading the “Rich Poor Girl” and loved every minute of it!
MEMOIR AUTHOR AND STORYTELLER
Richard Roberts
Richard Roberts is a memoir author and storyteller who brings 20th-century American life vividly to the page. His journey as a writer began in sixth grade with a school report on Olympic figure skater Sonja Henie—an early sign of the lifelong love for writing that would shape his future. Born in Fayette County, West Virginia, Richard’s early experiences in a one-room schoolhouse during the 1940s gave him a front-row seat to a way of life few remember today.
His personal memoirs explore growing up in rural Appalachia, the shift from country life to city living in Washington, D.C. and Virginia, and the cultural changes that shaped postwar America. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a business degree, Richard worked his way through college while raising a family—an experience that gave him valuable insight into American business, hard work, and the human stories behind everyday life.
With decades of real-world experience and a passion for preserving forgotten stories, Richard writes compelling nonfiction books filled with historical insight, humor, and heartfelt memories. His books are especially popular with readers who enjoy stories about growing up in mid-century America, the Appalachian experience, and reflections on how the country has changed since the 1940s and 1950s.
He has lived in West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, Illinois, and South Carolina, and has traveled through 47 U.S. states, Canada, and Mexico. These life experiences—paired with a sharp memory and a storyteller’s voice—bring his writing to life in a relatable, engaging way.
Richard is a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Through two marriages, he has seven children, twenty grandchildren, and twenty great-grandchildren. He often jokes that with a family this big, he may just take over America by 2060.
Currently living in Hagerstown, Maryland, Richard volunteers with the Literacy Council, Hagerstown Community College’s Business Incubator, Gatekeepers, the Antietam Exchange Club, and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. He is available for author events, book signings, and speaking engagements.
Follow Richard’s journey and explore his books about American life, growing up in the 1940s, and stories from small-town America—written with heart, history, and humor.
Join the Journey: Stories, Reflections & More from Richard Roberts
Get to know the man behind the stories by subscribing to Richard Roberts’ newsletter. As a lifelong observer of everyday life and a natural storyteller, Richard shares personal reflections, timeless wisdom, and thoughtful commentary on the world around us. His writing blends humor, heart, and a deep appreciation for the past—offering readers a comforting reminder of what really matters.
Subscribers will enjoy behind-the-scenes looks at upcoming books, exclusive content, and early access to new releases. Whether you grew up in a similar era or simply love meaningful stories told with honesty and charm, this newsletter invites you to pause, reflect, and connect. Sign up today and become part of a growing community that values stories worth remembering.
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