So you want to write a memoir to share the stories of your life, but you have no idea where or how to start. Does that sound right? If so, you're not alone. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
- Autobiography versus memoir, what's the difference? An autobiography is a book about a person's entire life while a memoir focuses on a specific time or part of one's life.
- Choose a significant event to write about. Write about a difficult choice and how you handled it, a lesson you learned, a pivotal moment, etc. It's your life—write about what's important to you.
- Captivate your audience. Be sure to draw your audience in by being as descriptive as possible.
- Writing takes practice. Set a goal for yourself to write every day. The more you write, the better your writing will be. Check out these fun writing exercises from author Jason Reynolds or listen to some short stories from The Moth. The Moth also has storytelling tips and tricks—and a place to tell your story once it’s written.
- Find a trusted person to review. Ask a trusted friend or family member to review and give honest feedback regarding your draft. You could also hire someone to do it for you.
Enjoy your time writing. Remembering your life and reliving your experiences is an important part of the journey. For more tips and ideas, check out these articles:
Want some more inspiration? Check out this list of new memoirs and autobiographies.
Have you ever thought, "I could write a book"? Now is the time to do it. November is Memoir Writing Month. Use the list below to find examples of writing styles you enjoy, get ideas for organizing your own memoir, or just find something good to read. Take a look at these recently released, popular, and well-reviewed memoirs.
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