FAQs
Q: Where can I read Richard's work?
A: In Philadelphia, mostly in the Weekly Press and via BroadStreetReview.com. But much of Richard's reporting and commentary is posted on Junto, and is available there in real time. Moreover, portions of Richard's longer works and books have also been posted on Junto. Details are available by clicking to 'Contax.'
Q: What other features appear regularly on this site?
A: Richard is hoping to create an inter-active feature. Get it started by sending queries and comments. Again look to 'Contax' for correct e-mail addresses.
Q: How do you pronounce Richard's surname -- Car-Reno? Car-wrenyo? Cur-wren-no?
A: Actually, it's 'Cah-wrrrren-yo,' being the strict Spanish pronunciation.(Don't forget to roll the 'r's'). The 'ñ' in the family name is a Spanish letter, unique in that form to the Spanish alphabet. The letter calls for a 'yo' sound. But Richard is used to various pronunciations. In the spirit of tolerance and goodwill, all are acceptable, but only one is preferable.
Q: So Richard is of Spanish heritage?
A: Yes and no. Richard's direct family line is from Cuba. His forebears were part of a rather large-scale migration of Cubans to the United States in the early 20th century. His grandfather, Toribio, immigrated to New York City in the 1920's. Toribio's family was originally from the town of Carreño, in the Spanish province of Asturias. (The 18th century painter Juan Carreño de Miranda was from the same place). Richard has visited Carreño and has the world's largest collection of postcards from the town.
Q: Richard's nationality?
A: USA.
Q:His religion?
A: Episcopalian -- and Jewish.
Q: Where does he live?
A: Philadelphia. You'll find him most frequently, as well, in London, Paris, New York, and Montréal.
Q: What did he do before writing (BW)?
A: In Richard's case, there was no BW. In one way or other, Richard has always been a writer. You can explore this site for all the gruesome details.
Q: What does he like to do when he’s not writing?
A: Ride horses. Collect books. Sell books. And give them away.
Q: Anything else?
A: Teach. From time to time, Richard is an adjunct at Girard College, Philadelphia.
Q: Married?
A: Used to be. Richard has three adult children. Abigail who lives in a small university town in Alabama; Justin, who lives nearby New Orleans (yes, he was hit hard by Katrina); and Hunter, who lives in northeastern Connecticut.
Q: What are Richard's politics?
A: See for yourself!
Q: What kind of car does he drive?
A: Whatever ZipCar provides him. Doesn't believe in car ownership. Yes, Richard is American. (See above under 'nationality.')
Last Updated: 29 June 2008