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Writing Memoirs

Writing Memoirs Feature Writer: Marg McAlister

Suite 101's Writing Memoirs section covers a wide range of topics that relate to writing memoirs, biographies, autobiographies, life writing and family histories.

Whether a writer needs advice on how to research someone's life story, using copyrighted material, or how to organise resources, there are useful tips here. Find out more about using photos and illustrations in a memoir, and techniques that help to make any memoir into a page-turner.

Discover the potential in using new technology for family histories, such as digital scrapbooking and audio interviews with family members of all ages.

Check back regularly for new tips on writing in this fascinating field. Please email Marg with Memoir Writing article topics or book/product releases that might be of interest to anyone writing in this area.


Feature Writer Articles in Writing Memoirs

The Difference Between a Memoir and a Biography
Writers can spend too much time worrying about what to call their recorded memories of a life. Does it really matter whether it's a biography or a memoir?
The Challenge of Writing Dialogue in a Memoir
Memory is unreliable, and memoir writers can run into trouble trying to recall conversations from the past. How can they accurately reproduce what was said?
Writing a Family History – Getting Started
It's time to turn that vague idea of 'writing a family history someday' into an official project. Set a starting date and a deadline for publication, and watch it grow.
Writing a Memoir – Crafting a Good Opening
The opening page is vitally important in any story: fiction or non-fiction. Take whatever time is necessary to write an effective introduction for a memoir.
Writing Memoirs as Therapy
People set about writing a memoir for many different reasons - and one of those reasons can be to help them work through a difficult period in their lives.


Contributing Articles in Writing Memoirs

What Is Creative Nonfiction?
Creative nonfiction, the "fourth genre," is a genre that is quickly gaining acceptance among writers, readers, and critics in the literary world.
Paulo Coelho's The Pilgrimage; A Review
Paulo Coelho takes us into a world of questioning, reflection and victory
Publishing Personal Histories
Every family has stories they treasure. Personal historian Robin Fowler has built her business, Speak Memories Publishing, on ensuring those stories are never lost.
Writing An Autobiography The Joy & The Pain
Personal, intimate stories can be difficult to share, but the end result can be illuminating and life-changing for the reader. Pre-planning and preparation are key.
Interview: NYT Bestselling Author Jen Lancaster
Jen Lancaster is the New York Times bestselling author of four books. Her new 5th book, My Fair Lazy, is getting ready to debut. Come meet Jen Lancaster!
Tori McClure's Memoir is a Pearl in the Storm
Tori Murden McClure rowed across the Atlantic Ocean by herself in 1999. Her book explores this journey of self-discovery and test of physical and emotional endurance.
Old Friend From Far Away Book Review
Author of Writing Down the Bones hits another homerun as she celebrates the form of memoir. Filled with time tests and encouraging messages for the writer.
Writing a Bereavement Poem-Comfort for Grieving
We don't always know how to comfort those who have lost a loved one, even though our hearts go out to them. Sometimes a timely poem can convey those emotions for us.
Themes in Scott Russell Saunders
Sanders uses starkly contrasting words to convey the confusing rollercoaster of emotions that was his experience of his father's alcoholism in this memoir essay.
Creative Writing Prompts for College Journaling
Some students feel like college writing courses are a waste of their time and often this is because they don't think they have anything to say.
Disclosure in a Memoir
Figuring out just how much information to give to the reader while writing a memoir can be tricky. However, with planning, a writer can figure out how much is enough.
The Importance of Voice in a Memoir
The voice, or tone, in a memoir is extremely important in getting a reader's attention and to bring the audience into the story emotionally.
How to Write a Memoir
Writing a memoir can be a hard task, both as a writer and as a character in the memoir. However, keeping a few things in mind can make the writing more enjoyable.
Interview – Charlotte Smith, Dreaming Of Dior
Charlotte Smith has had more than her fair share of fabulous dresses and adventures, including inheriting her American godmother's vintage clothing collection
How to Start and Keep a Journal
Journaling can be a way to release frustrations, create a record of life events, and even a way to practice different styles of writing.

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