John Reinhardt Finds Humor And Wisdom In Everyday Life Through His Captivating Books

Photo: John Reinhardt enjoys a serene moment with his wife, Lynn, showcasing their shared journey and enduring togetherness.

Exploring Human Behavior With Humor And Insight

John Reinhardt shares his journey from book designer to author, blending humor and reflection to tackle everyday annoyances like driving, shopping, and etiquette in his insightful “Crazy” book series.

John Reinhardt is a literary craftsman whose journey defies conventional boundaries, transitioning from an illustrious career in book design to becoming an author who captures life’s everyday truths with wit and wisdom. For more than fifty years, John shaped the printed pages of countless authors, honing a meticulous eye for detail and a creative flair that enriched the works of others. Today, his own voice shines brightly in the literary world—both sharp and profoundly relatable—delivering stories that blend humor, reflection, and a genuine understanding of humanity’s quirks and complexities.

Reinhardt’s books, affectionately dubbed “My Crazy Books,” invite readers to look differently at life’s ordinary moments—whether it’s navigating the frustrations of driving, the chaos of shopping, or the nuances of golf. With his characteristic humor and sharp observations, John reminds us not only to laugh at life’s absurdities but also to reflect on how our behavior impacts others. His ability to elevate the minutiae of everyday life into compelling narratives speaks to his deep understanding of human behavior and his desire to help us all be a little better, a little kinder.

From his days in an Army uniform to his love for marathons, rowing, and guitar-playing, John’s rich, multifaceted life infuses every chapter of his writing. Whether wryly critiquing bad driving habits or exploring overlooked social etiquette, his work carries an unmistakable authenticity born from his own experiences and adventures. As John continues to add to his “Crazy” series and share his reflections on his extraordinary career in design, his passion for creativity and storytelling remains undiminished—an inspiration not only to writers but to anyone seeking to turn life’s moments, big or small, into lasting contributions. This interview shines a spotlight on the mind behind the stories, offering readers a glimpse into the heart and humor of John Reinhardt’s work.

John Reinhardt brilliantly transforms life’s ordinary frustrations into engaging stories, inspiring readers with humor, wisdom, and thought-provoking insights on human behavior.

What inspired you to shift from designing books to writing your own?

After nearly fifty years of designing thousands of books for others, it was inevitable that I would eventually write one (or more) of my own. I have always been fascinated with human behavior in public settings and with my love for driving, it became obvious I needed to write a book about bad driving situations. I enjoyed writing this book so much, I knew it was just the beginning.

How did your experiences as a book designer influence the way you approached writing and structuring your own books?

I have worked with so many authors and editors over the years, and I have learned from them. My approach is like designing a book. I write down thoughts as I think of them. Much like creating a quilt, I write small pieces and eventually those pieces will begin to connect to one another. When all my “pieces” are properly connected I begin to “sew” the book together from start to finish, filling in the gaps as I go.

What motivated you to focus on everyday annoyances like driving and shopping for your first books?

Driving is a dangerous activity and if done wrong, the result can be deadly. I take driving seriously and when I’m behind the wheel, I focus all my attention on everything going on around me. I apply this attitude when I am in public and around others. Whether it be walking through an aisle in a grocery store, playing golf, on an airplane, or just being with others, I pay attention to the situation and anticipate actions and reactions. I see a lot of things we all can do better to help others enjoy the same experiences. And as a result, I want to share my observations, and suggestions with others in hopes these books can help their lives be better.

How do you balance humor with serious safety or etiquette messages in your writing?

Most people know me for telling jokes. There are times, when telling a story, people don’t know whether it is serious, or whether it’s going to be a joke. This prompts them to be curious. I think people are more willing to listen to something when there is humor involved. I love to laugh and smile, so I begin each of the topics in my books with a humorous, light-hearted comment to help get the reader interested in what may be a serious subject to follow.

Were there any particular events or observations that directly led to stories in your books?

Nothing in particular, but rather the frequency with which these behaviors and situations occurred. I am easily frustrated and disappointed in how so many people inconsiderately conduct themselves in public. Many people move about as if they have blinders on, not paying attention to those around them. There are so many simple things we can do to help make others’ lives better.

What was it like collaborating with an editor and illustrator for your first authorial project?

Like anything else, working with someone who knows me makes an enormous difference. I have been working with an amazing editor, Kathleen Strattan, for more than thirty years. We’ve become close friends during that time. She knows what it is I am trying to say and the “voice” in which I am saying it. Therefore, instead of just getting standard editorial guidance, she makes suggestions/edits based on my personality. My books are not just perceptions, but “my” perceptions. This is important to me.

The illustrator for my cover images, Malane Newman, is also amazing. I write a list of things I’d like to see in the illustration, and it is like she is reading my mind. She nails it!

Did your military background shape your approach to identifying and organizing the behaviors you critique?

I am sure my time in the Army has helped me to be critical in the things I, and others, do. One thing that has stuck with me since basic training was to always criticize yourself first before criticizing others. Make sure you are doing things properly before calling out someone else.

How do your hobbies, like go-karting and guitar playing, influence your creativity or writing process?

Most of the things I enjoy doing have some creative element to them. There are standard ways of doing things, but I am always looking to see if there is a better way, or a unique way that might produce a different and more successful or advantageous result. I have always been interested in everything, and I have designed books on just about every subject possible. I am a curious person, and I enjoy looking beyond the surface of things I see and do.

Do you have plans to expand “My Crazy Books” into other areas of everyday life?

So far, I have published “Crazy” books on driving, shopping, and golf. Flying, Cruising, and Dining will follow in the next few months. I am also working on a book about my life and book design career which will focus on my experiences and lessons I have learned in my journey through life, hoping these stories will help others in similar situations.

What advice would you give to other designers or creatives who are thinking about writing their first book?

I am far from an expert on writing, so I rely heavily on my editor to help me get the books to read properly. This is especially important. Just like a proper book design, you want the book to be read in such a way you don’t know you’re reading but rather visualizing a movie inside your head. If the design or writing is not right, the reader will find it difficult to be fully immersed in the “story.” Find an editor you like and who knows you. Work together to get your book right. And let others read it along the way. Their reactions will be invaluable.

John Reinhardt blends experience, observation, and humour to promote road safety. His engaging approach empowers drivers to reflect on habits, stay alert, and make smarter, safer decisions every time they hit the road.

A witty yet insightful guide for every driver, You’re Driving Me Crazy! exposes 101 reckless, rude, and risky driving habits seen on today’s roads. John Reinhardt delivers a sharp mix of humour and wisdom, teaching readers how to spot, avoid, and stop dangerous behaviour behind the wheel—making driving safer for everyone.