Writing a Memoir: Begin with These Books

If you ever consider writing a memoir of your life, there is plenty of information out there on this subject. The internet is of course the greatest source. You can type in one thing, and it will bring up hundreds of pages for you to look at.

It is very hard to stay focus when there are so many distractions such as the ads flashing, your eyes caught a title that sounds interesting, you receive an email alert, your friend is aiming you through the yahoo pager, and you just simple get off track.

I tend to be all over places when I am on the computer. I have to constantly remind myself to stay focus on my priorities. Thus for reading, I like to borrow books from the library to keep me from jumping from pages to pages.

These books are my favorites in memoir writing that I have read.

Memoir Writing Tips by Sol Stein

This book is a complete guide from start to end. The author gives step by step instruction and suggestion on building a memoir book from creating scenes, to build suspense, to use dialogue. It is a must read book if you are planning to write a memoir.

How to Write a Memoir with Characters by Kathleen Finneran

This book is not only good for memoir writing; it is also good for other genres. The author is teaching you in developing the characters for your memoir. The most useful part of this book is working with the three column-lists. This book helps you creating a deep relationship with your characters.

Memoir Tips-Just the Facts by Sandra Scofield

This book focused on facts which the author called "seed crystal". She helps you to identify an incident, an aspect, the emotional impact, or an ambience place that you want to recall in memoir writing. Just as the title said, you are using facts to center your writing.

You Can Write a Memoir by Susan Carol Hauser

In this book, you will practice writing in stages: childhood, adolescence, and adult life, as well revising, editing, interviews and research. The author also gives great advices on how to deal with facing a blank piece of paper.

Writing about Your Life by William Zinsser

This book covers a broad spectrum of your life, from school, to places and people that you have crossed. The author discusses the uses of memory, recovering the past, and writing as a ministry.

Having a book on hand to read when you are waiting at the doctor's office or soccer practice is great. You will feel as though you are accomplishing two tasks at once. I am constantly checking out books from the library to read for such occasion. Have fun reading and happy writing!