Whether or not one has lived an exceptional or dramatic life, we inherently understand that writing memoir—whether it’s a book, blog, or just a letter to a child—is the single greatest portal to self-examination. Stop treading water in writing exercises or hiding behind “writer’s block” and learn how to write with intent. Marion Roach Smith’s disarmingly frank but wildly fun tactics offer you simple and effective guidelines that work. Your legacy beings now.
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"From the moment I picked up this little book, with its pen and ink drawings on the cover, I was hooked. I read it from cover to cover very quickly, and now keep it beside my writing chair to reread various sections more thoroughly. The suggestions have helped me "keep to the thought" as I write my own essays and blog posts. A "must-read" for anyone who enjoys writing and reflecting on life."
— Susan (5 out of 5 stars)
" This is my favorite book on writing memoir... and I have read many. Roach Smith takes everyday ideas and demonstrates how to use those in writing memoir. Must read for all writers. "
— Christy, 2/8/2014" It was all right. A few good quotations, as well as the only writing book that has ever said that writing exercises are pretty much worthless. "
— Pattie, 1/23/2014" At last, a no nonsense guide for the beginning memoir writer! After plodding through how-to books with endless exercises I finally found some practical guidance for putting my ideas into words. I first read it as a library book, then purchased it for myself for later reference. Smith's humor was a bonus and the 114 pages flew by. I strongly recommend this book. "
— Karen, 1/20/2014" What a great read. The 'aha' moment, her own stories and all the way through, clear and unequivocal advice. One of the best investments I've made this year. Bravo! "
— Beth, 1/16/2014" Best book on writing I've read!! It's got me inspired, jotting down memories and even writing! "
— Yazmin, 1/11/2014" I loved the prompts for writing in this book. I don't think I'm ready to write my memoir just yet, but maybe I should get started. "
— Nancy, 12/7/2013" You don't have to be writing a book to benefit from this one. Good advice for bloggers too. "
— Deborah, 11/26/2013" I enjoyed The Memoir Project both for its entertainment value and for its dead-practical tips on writing nonfiction well. This slim volume (114 pages) is well worth spending an afternoon on. "
— Anne, 11/12/2013" Some good ideas on how to execute writing...I started doing it again, at least so Thank you, ma'am. I didn't dig the author's voice, personally. Not subversive enough for me. "
— Heather, 9/8/2013" Wonderful concise guide to writing memoir. I gleaned many, many tips to put into action within my current memoir project. "
— Ginny, 8/2/2013" So good! So helpful! Best line: ""From this minute forward, your intent is to write with purpose." Thank you, Marion Roach Smith. This is my new favorite writing book. (Sorry Anne Lamott...) "
— Alison, 6/27/2013" Clear, concise with multiple pearls, told in an engaging manner. Made me believe, I, too, could possibly, with a lot of hard work, write a memoir. "
— Dawn, 4/11/2013" I read this to possibly use in a class. Overall, I thought it had a lot of good, vivid writing, but much of her advice was generic or unclear. "
— Wade, 4/2/2013" One of the best books on writing that I have read thus far. I don't currently own it but have put it on my wish list and plan on getting it as soon as possible. Already it has helped me to write with intent and structure. The two things that were stopping me from starting. "
— Lisa, 2/16/2013" I am really enjoying this book. It's taking the genre and breaking it down into effective segments that are not so intimidating. Plus it's a good read to boot! "
— Clare, 12/5/2012" A must-read for aspiring memoirists. Gets to the heart of good writing and is such an enjoyable read. Thanks for the recommendation, Jill! "
— Ellen, 10/14/2012" Excellent text on writing a memoir. Whether you're writing an essay or a book, this text can help. "
— Elizabeth, 7/28/2012" I couldn't put it down - read it in 2 days in spite of other looming obligations (only 112 pages so it's not overly long). "
— Tomigirl44, 7/8/2012" Direct, to the point tips on memoir writing. I liked it very much. "
— Sharon, 3/18/2012" What an amazing book--makes me want to write more and write better. Loved this. "
— Amber, 2/1/2012" A fun, breezy, honest, and inspiring read. After checking this book out from the library a few days ago, I had some good laughs and learned a few things about writing along the way. "
— Reiden, 10/18/2011
Marion Roach Smith, cofounder of TheSisterProject.com, is the author of The Roots of Desire: The Myth, Meaning and Sexual Power of Red Hair; co-author of Dead Reckoning; and author of Another Name for Madness. She has written for the New York Times Magazine, Martha Stewart Living, Prevention, New York Daily News, Vogue, Newsday, Good Housekeeping, and American Health. She has also been a commentator on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered.