Richard R. Redmond grew up navigating the "minefield" of 1970s Detroit—a city of sharp edges, soulful music, and the constant hum of the assembly lines. A graduate of the "School of Hard Knocks" long before earning his formal degrees, Richard spent his formative years on the very sidewalks and street lamps that Jimmy Cass calls home.
With a career spanning thirty years in the classroom, Richard has dedicated his life to education and literacy. He holds a Master’s degree in Educational Technology, a background that he now uses to bridge the gap between traditional storytelling and modern classroom engagement. His experience as a veteran educator inspired him to create the Jimmy Cass series—not just as a collection of stories, but as a tool to help students connect with complex themes of survival, loss, and resilience.
Now a retired educator, Richard splits his time between the hills of Chula Vista and the coastal breezes of Ensenada, Mexico. His writing is deeply influenced by the "grit and grace" of his upbringing, often set against the backdrop of 1972—a pivotal era of cultural shifts and unbreakable social bonds.
When he isn’t at his desk, Richard can be found:
Walking and Biking: Logging miles along the coast to clear his head for the next chapter.
Swimming: Taking daily afternoon swims in the Pacific (unheated, the Detroit way).
Exploring: Traveling with his wife, Maura, and spending time with their four adult sons.
Community Service: Volunteering as a driver for Meals on Wheels, staying connected to the community he calls home.
Richard is the author of:
Jimmy Cass: Sidewalks and Street Lamps – A historical fiction series and accompanying Teacher’s Guide.
Out of My Head – A personal memoir.