Tammy Letherer In this vlog chat with Anonymous Bells (hosted by developmental editors Colleen Alles and Megan Turner) we chat about several tips for aspiring memoir writers, including:
Do not write your memoir alone: I emphasize the importance of having an editor, coach, or mentor by your side throughout the process. Because you are often too close to your own experiences, an objective partner is essential to help you see the broader story, identify connections, and provide support during emotionally difficult writing sessions.
Focus on the narrative arc, not just the facts: A common pitfall is simply recounting events as they happened. To transform personal history into a compelling memoir, you must treat it as an art form by identifying the transformation and the universal lessons within your experience. I suggest using established story structures, such as the Hero’s Journey, to curate your scenes and ensure your manuscript has a clear, engaging flow rather than just a chronological report.
