Raised by Mountains, Schooled by Life
The Storytelling of Richard Roberts
RICHARD'S NEW BOOK IS NOW AVAILABLE
OTHER WORK BY RICHARD ROBERTS
Order Today
$10.00
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.
$15.00
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.
$10.00
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.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING
Reviews
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, wit… Show more.
Bob
October 7, 2025
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 sotories were very interesting and it opens your eyes to how much has changed in this sport over the years.
Sara Roman
September 13, 2025
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!
Linda Wolfersheim
August 30, 2025
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 will continue to write. Thank you!
Linda Wolfersheim
August 24, 2025
Down Home Charm
Richard’s writing style is very appealing to the average American 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!
Pam Henry
August 7, 2025
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.
Subscribe to Richard's Newsletter
GET THE LATEST
ON UPCOMING BOOKS AND EVENTS
