Start writing your story this summer

Looking for Something to Do While the Library Is Closed?

The holiday season is the perfect time to start writing your memoir. You don’t need the library, you don’t need to do any research — after all, you were there for every moment you’ll be writing about. You can begin anywhere along your life’s journey, in any style you like. You can even write while the Boxing Day Test hums along in the background (fingers crossed it lasts longer than two days!).

Here are a few ideas to help you get started:

1. Your First Memory

Think back to your earliest memory. Why has it stayed with you? Who else was there? What was said? Write it down.

2. One Important Event — Two Perspectives

Choose a significant event in your life. Write about it from your own point of view, then interview someone who was there and rewrite the scene incorporating their perspective.

3. The Theory of Three

Dive into your photo albums (try not to disappear). Pick three photos that evoke strong memories. Write three paragraphs about each one. Do that three times and you're well on your way to a memoir photo journal.

No matter where you begin, the most important thing is simply to start writing. Don’t worry about getting the words perfect — focus on getting them down. You can always refine later.

And if you haven’t already… consider joining the Family History ACT Writers Special Interest Group.

Happy holidays, and happy writing!