A version of this essay originally appeared as my guest post on DeliberateInk, the blog of writer Shikarah Dawud. Remembering the past so that we can record it might not be the greatest challenge we memoirists face. In a memoir, precision isn’t everything. If we’re unsure of a date, we can dip … [Read more...] about A Memoir is More Than Just Facts
creative writing tips
How to Write What Matters
Add Intensity to Your Life Writing I urge my creative writing students not to bother putting on paper all the joys and none of the pain of their lives. That approach is boring, un-instructive, and anyway, I won’t believe it. Nobody’s existence is unblemished. I’m not suggesting you write … [Read more...] about How to Write What Matters
Another Must-Have Memoir Writing Aid
It’s true that my own essay, “No More Secrets and Silence,” appears in the recently released The Magic of Memoir: Inspiration for the Writing Journey anthology, and that this essay won first prize in the Magic of Memoir contest. But if you write memoir or family history, I’d be urging you to get … [Read more...] about Another Must-Have Memoir Writing Aid
Write That Memoir, Life Story, or Family History. Now.
Know you should start or finish your memoir, stories from your life, or family history, but can't seem to get up enough steam for the task? Ease over to Bookcoaching.com to see the tips I offer in my guest post. They can get you going. - Lynette … [Read more...] about Write That Memoir, Life Story, or Family History. Now.
Talking Memoir with Writing Instructor, Coach, and Publisher Brooke Warner, Part 2
In Part 2 of her interview (below), Brooke Warner discusses She Writes Press's approach to publishing and offers advice to those starting or continuing work on their manuscripts. - Lynette Why do you think She Writes Press is thriving? Does it publish a variety of genres? How does it differ from … [Read more...] about Talking Memoir with Writing Instructor, Coach, and Publisher Brooke Warner, Part 2
I’m 1st Place Winner of the Magic of Memoir Essay Contest!
Sure, I'm grinning all over myself. My essay, "No More Secrets and Silence," was awarded 1st place in the Magic of Memoir Essay Contest, chosen from 185 submissions. My prize is $400, which has already arrived. And the essay will also be included in the forthcoming Magic of Memoir Anthology. … [Read more...] about I’m 1st Place Winner of the Magic of Memoir Essay Contest!
Free Memoir and Family History Writing Talk
Interested in writing memoir, stories from your life, or family history? I'll be presenting a free (and lively) talk on Tuesday 7/12 at Robbins Library, in Arlington, Mass. at 1:00. I hope you'll join us. This talk could help you get started or work your way to the finish line! … [Read more...] about Free Memoir and Family History Writing Talk
How Do You Like Your Memoirs?
Are you having trouble figuring out how to approach writing your memoir, or if you've started it, are you baffled about how to make it "take off?" One way to think about possible treatments for your memoir is to take another look at those you’ve enjoyed. (You have been reading memoirs, right? You … [Read more...] about How Do You Like Your Memoirs?
Memoir Narrator’s Transformation
I just had the pleasure of having my article, A Memoir Narrator Transformed posted on Women Writers, Women['s] Books. I hope you'll stop by and give it a read, especially if you write or enjoy reading memoir. … [Read more...] about Memoir Narrator’s Transformation