I think this is a very good book indeed: extremely readable with a very human story to tell (about the author's journey to rediscover himself and education after facing imminent death) and a message to send (about the role of the liberal arts in our lives as well as our education). Martin employs compelling references to and quotations from the classical texts he read in the St. John's freshman seminar: this is not heavy-handed "you should read Aeschylus if you want to call yourself educated" stuff, but rather the humble confession of a humanist who knows one is never too old, educated, or experienced to learn something new or again. And that is a message that will always be valuable. --Loren J. Samons II, author of What's Wrong with Democracy: From Athenian Practice to American Worship

Roger Martin has created a riveting narrative of his confrontation with mortality, and, in that encounter, a testimonial to the enduring value of liberal education. --Douglas W. Foard, Executive Secretary (ret.) of Phi Beta Kappa

"An extraordinary memoir."—Times Literary Supplement (Tls)

"Alternately amusing and poignant, Martin's personal epic offers a much-needed perspective on cultural dilemmas both ancient and modern."—Booklist

"An engaging memoir."—Library Journal

"An understated, engaging memoir."—Providence Journal

"Racing Odysseus is not your typical college president's memoir."—Change Magazine