How to Write a Book Memoir

Writing a memoir may require accessing personal memories.

A memoir is unlike any other type of book, because it will be different for each writer. A memoir is about one person, but is not classified as an autobiography since a memoir does not cover a person's life in its entirety. Your memoir can focus on any single idea, event or experience that you have been through. Each memoir, like each writer, is different, but some of the writing methods may be similar.

Instructions

1. Write down or type possible themes for the memoir. Use brainstorming techniques such as listing the top 10 (or five or 15--the number is up to you) events in your life, or the most important days of your life. If you have old journals, re-read them to help jog your memory.

2. Write about one of the themes or events, at random if you can't decide on one. At this point, writing is a stream of consciousness-type task. Write until you cannot recall any more about the chosen event.

3. Write about the next theme or event on your list, following the same method you used previously. Repeat this process until you have completed your list. With a memoir, the author needs to "think small" and make a series of "reducing decisions," according to William Zinsser, author "On Writing Well." You might not use all that you have written for the final memoir.

4. Read through all of your assembled writing. Choose one or several of the themes to focus on.

5. Compile the entire memoir, using the chosen themes. If possible, weave the stories together, especially if they occurred at consecutive or simultaneous times. Editing is an ongoing process, and you may find yourself making many changes until you are completely satisfied with your story.

Tips & Warnings

• Memoirs are written in first person and should draw the reader in. If possible, talk to the reader as if you are speaking to a friend.

References

• Writer's Digest: Write A Memoir To Remember
• Barbara Doyden: Memoir writing techniques
• Scholastic: Memoirs