When you write a memoir, you must bring everything you have to it—your past, your present, and the shadow. You put your heart on the page, you create a world for the reader, and you offer a universal message.  

In this program, participants will learn about the process of unearthing your truths, writing about family, and breaking silence. What stories make demands on your heart? How do your memories turn into stories? You begin with the significant moments, turning points in your life, and weave together the layers of your story. Ask yourself: what is my memoir about? What wisdom/learning am I delivering? 

We’ll investigate the skills that memoir writers need to create a world that the reader can enter, which includes your theme, creating powerful scenes, dialogue, and characterization. Everyone asks if a memoir is fiction when you don’t remember everything, but I focus on the fact that you’re writing your deep emotional truths. We’ll talk about the arc of the narrative, and how you bring the reader into your heart and soul as the protagonist. To write a heartful memoir, you need to dig deep and at the same time, take care of yourself. Some memories are painful. And in the end, what does the reader learn from you that they can apply to their own lives?

Linda Joy Myers, founder of the National Association of Memoir Writers, is the author of award winning memoirs Don't Call Me Mother and Song of the Plains, and two books on craft The Power of Memoir and Journey of Memoir. A memoir coach for 30 years, she helps memoir writers find their voice and get their story into the world. You can learn more at http://namw.org. 

This program is done in partnership with the California Writers Club of Marin.