The range of topics and styles in memoir writing is enormous. So to answer the question "What qualities make a good memoir?", I decided to read customer reviews on a bunch of memoirs on Amazon. I noted adjectives that were commonly used throughout the reviews. It was actually surprising to find the same words and phrases used to describe wildly ... Read More
Memoir & Autobiography Writing Articles
If you are not a professional writer, but are thinking about writing your memoir or autobiography, you're in the right place! We will do our best to provide answers to the questions you may encounter on your journey.
How to Write a Cookbook Memoir
Recently a friend shared with me cookbook memoir written by a friend of hers. As I looked through the pages of recipes, stories, and family photos, I knew this type of memoir would be a great fit for some of my readers, even some us who don't consider ourselves "cooks". Many of us have memories that are either centered on or connected to the meals ... Read More
Do You Have What it Takes to Write a Memoir?
Have you been thinking about preserving your life stories, but wondering if you have what it takes to write a memoir or autobiography? Most of MemoirHelper.com is geared for people who don't write professionally and are only hoping to share their stories with family, friends, and future generations. This simple exercise was designed to help ... Read More
Writing About Negative Experiences
Many memoir writers struggle with writing about negative experiences, even though they are vital to explaining the writer's point of view. Some people just don't like to "dwell on the negative" while others are uncomfortable sharing their worst moments or traits, or those of someone they love. There are at least a couple of reasons that you ... Read More
Did you see our articles on…?
Occasionally, MemoirHelper.com will contribute articles to the other websites. We don't you to miss out, so we will post excerpts and links to them here! On March 31st, 2016, we contributed this article to AmericasFootprints.com... Writing Letters to Share Later A friend of mine once told me that he had started writing letters to his ... Read More
What is Autobiography?
Autobiography is a non-fiction writing genre. However people asking the question "What is autobiography?" are often wanting to know the specific characteristics that make autobiography different from other non-fiction genres like memoir. So first take a look at the definitions. Autobiography (definition from Dictionary.com) - a history of a ... Read More
Why Do You Believe What You Believe?
The answer to the question "Why Do You Believe What You Believe?" is often left to the interpretation of those who know only what you believe. A few days ago, I had a conversation with a gentleman who didn't want to leave those interpretations to chance. He had some very strong opinions on topics that at a glance didn't align with other positions ... Read More
Define: Memoir vs Autobiography
First let's just say that not all dictionary definitions make it clear that there is a difference. However, most of the writing experts define memoir vs autobiography something like this: A memoir is about a specific event, topic, or time period in your life. An autobiography covers your entire life. That is really all you need to know. ... Read More
FREE REPORT: Preparing to Write Your Memoir
Sometimes the biggest obstacle to writing a memoir or autobiography is getting started. This short report will help you build the momentum you need to get you excited and writing before you know it. Here's what's inside: Suggestions for creating a Memoir Kit so you can stay organized and focused Brainstorming ideas and suggestions ... Read More
New Year’s Resolution: Write My Memoirs
Did you do it? Did you say it out loud or just think it? Is this the first time you've told yourself that it's time? You are not alone. There are lots of people out there that would like to write their memoirs or autobiographies and it sometimes lingers in the back of their minds until finally, one day they get started. Others let it linger too ... Read More
