Writing Memoirs


Feature Writer: Marg McAlister
Marg McAlister, 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 articles
Marg McAlister

How to Plan a Family History Book Launch

In: Writing Memoirs (general)

After writing and publishing a family history, why not celebrate with a book launch? These family reunion themes and ideas can be adapted for a gathering of any size. more...

Writing a Memoir Versus Writing a Novel

In: Writing Memoirs (general)

A dramatic life story can be written as a memoir, or it can be turned into fiction. The author of "Fighting for Life" tells why she opted to use fiction. more...

Going Rogue – a Lesson in Memoir Writing

In: Writing Memoirs (general)

High-profile writers like Sarah Palin can discover that their vision of a book is not the same as that of the media. What can authors learn from "Going Rogue"? more...

Make a Family History Book for Christmas

In: Writing Memoirs (general)

Create a popular keepsake gift for all family members - design it once then print multiple copies. Use digital scrapbooking layouts or make your own photo album. more...

From Keeping a Journal to Writing a Memoir

In: Writing Memoirs (general)

The contents of a personal diary can provide a rich vein of stories for biographies and memoirs. The organised writer will find that results exceed expectations. more...

Writing a Memoir for a Difficult Client

In: Writing Memoirs (general)

Writing a biography can be rewarding, fascinating, and lucrative - and it can all fall over quicker than the writer can say "I should have had a contract!" more...

How to Write Memoirs Without Waffling

In: Writing Memoirs (general)

It's not necessary to be an established author to start writing memoirs, but it's useful to know a few tricks of the trade to keep readers interested. more...

Tips on Using First Person Tense

In: Writing Memoirs (general)

Anyone writing in the first person tense understands the problem: constant repetition of "I did this" and "I thought that.". Luckily there are ways to avoid too much "I". more...

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