Reviews

“The writing style . . . is beautifully lyrical. In some places, the writing is stop-in-tracks insightful . . . . As ever, there is some truly beautiful writing in the ACCIDENTAL EDUCATOR, of genuine depth and insight . . . . Moreover, for a memoir in this form, there is great poignancy and tenderness to the writing in moments.”

Jon Curzon,
Editor, The WRITING Consultancy
Cambridge, UK

“Dr. Reno’s book [The Accidental Educator] deftly fuses his educational career with his personal life. He describes a childhood that certainly wasn’t free of troubles. . . . Despite the author intermittently highlighting such details as places he’s lived and his mentors and influences, this memoir is primarily chronological and easy to follow. Reno occasional includes essays or letters that, though written at different points in his life, connect to whatever topic a particular chapter focuses on. The narrative contains a wealth of historical details—Reno, who’s a white male, first entered a segregated school at age 12 (in 1954) and witnessed much racial and sexual discrimination both in and outside the workforce. It’s hardly surprising that this retired English professor’s prose is lucid and refreshingly polished. The undeniable affection for the work he’s done comes through as well, and he’s not above a bit of tongue-in-cheek humor, as when he arms students with literature terminology in case they’re ‘kidnapped by a rogue book club.’

An educator’s professional and personal lives together make for an engaging, richly detailed true story.”

Kirkus Reviews

“THE ACCIDENTAL EDUCATOR: Life-Defining Stories of Rites and Wrongs, is a memoir that is perfect for teachers and school administrators, and for those who think a career in education might just be for them. Dr. Reno’s clear message is that success can be yours because of what you do, and in spite of it. I encourage you to take a look at THE ACCIDENTAL EDUCATOR.”

Janet Flaugher – Teacher, Principal, Superintendent, Author

“In The Accidental Educator, Dr. Eric Reno unfolds a captivating memoir. From navigating early teaching challenges to poignant family experiences, the memoir unveils a journey in community college education filled with international adventures and cherished moments. As you turn each page, anticipate not only a glimpse into Eric’s life but also the hope that his story leaves a positive impact on your life.
The book features his favorites and precious life moments captured in evocative pictures. Dive into a rich narrative that weaves together the threads of a remarkable life, inviting you to join in the exploration of lessons, laughter, and lasting impressions. I really liked, undoubtedly, the vivid storytelling of the life of Dr. Eric that spans years, involving challenges, friendships, and family experiences. I must commend that the life of Eric is simply beautiful, admirable, and full of accomplishments.

I could barely find anything to dislike about this book. I enjoyed reading every part of this book because each segment had lessons that I could pick from. Also, the author’s writing with the hope in mind that the memoir positively impacts readers is a commendable aspect. I found a few grammatical errors that do not quite affect the message in this book; hence, this book was professionally well-edited.

I will rate this book 5 out of 5 stars because of its engaging and well-thought-out content. The inclusion of the author’s favorites and life moments captured in pictures adds a unique visual dimension to the storytelling, creating a well-rounded reading experience. I recommend this book to those seeking a poignant journey through a lifetime of experiences. The Accidental Educator by Dr. Eric Reno is a compelling memoir that resonates with educators, history enthusiasts, and individuals interested in personal growth. With rich storytelling, this memoir is a must-read for those who seek emotional depth and thoughtful reflection, making it a rewarding choice for a diverse audience. “

Review by Abraham Ozo
23 Feb 2024, OnlineBookClub.org

“Answers are difficult to find.  Sometimes they are masked by presentation, but are well worth exploration. Time spent inside THE ACCIDENTAL EDUCATOR: Life-Defining Stories of Rites and Wrongs, will be time well spent. The logic and conclusions of Eric Reno’s life-work is an example of a summary of a personal search for answers.  Whether you agree or not, the intentions and conclusions of Eric’s effort are well worth a quiet read. In a time when carefully crafted images and selected words push us to conclusions for the sole benefit of their presenter, considering the ideas and events offered in this candid work deserve a visit. Best wishes to all, and to Eric for providing individual conclusions that are likely to resonate for many from the journey of a mind intent on pursuing meaningful answers.”

Marc Paul Chinoy, founder of The Regis Group, Inc.

“Eric Reno has written a wonderful memoir full of valuable insights learned throughout his personal and professional life. It is especially useful to those who have or are considering a career in educational leadership in general and community colleges in particular. Dr. Reno is an excellent writer who demonstrates compassion, humility, insight, and integrity of the highest level. His knowledge and experience are of tremendous value, and his literary style and ability to beautifully use words are of the highest quality. Passages of this book, like the masterfully written Epilogue, are on a literary level with the greatest American writers like Ernest Hemingway or John Dos Passos. The book is written by a first-rate administrator, writer, and human being.”

Daniel Derrico, Ed. D
Retired college administrator and professor, March 6, 2024

“Dear Eric:

“You are a born writer. I laughed and teared up as I read your narrative over several days. You grabbed life and then ran with it, and you continue to do so. I agree wholeheartedly with your assessment that our formative years provided us with extraordinary opportunities, even though we may not have realized it fully at the time.”

Richard Busch
Early mentor and life-long friend. (CIA, ret.)