Memories Into Memoirs
We All Have a Story to Tell
I Can Help You Tell Yours
Are there significant stories in your life that you would like to share with others—with family members, friends, associates, clients, the world-at-large?
I can help you create a memoir that captures notable times in your life—or in the lives of your parents, children, and other special people.
Formative experiences
Significant milestones
Memorable moments
Major achievements
I can also help you craft a longer piece that tells a life story--or that preserves the memory of a loved one.
An autobiography
A biography
A profile
A family history
I'll help you organize and develop your story—and I'll assist with all phases of the research, writing, editing, and publishing process.
The result? A gracefully written, handsomely illustrated book. A legacy. A family heirloom. A distinctive gift. A lasting treasure.
Let’s strike up a conversation. I'll assess your editorial needs and help you determine the scope and cost of the project. We'll formulate a writing strategy—and go from there.
Orlo J. Otteson
651-278-4824
otteson@aol.com
If you're contemplating a memoir project, and wondering how to start, you might note this advice from novelist John Steinbeck:
Don't start by trying to make the book chronological. Just take a period. Then try to remember it so clearly that you can see things: what colors and how warm or cold and how you got there. Then try to remember people. And then just tell what happened. It is important to tell what people looked like, how they walked, what they wore, what they ate. Put it all in. Don't try to organize it. And put in all the details you can remember. You will find that in a very short time things will begin coming back to you, you thought you had forgotten. Do it for very short periods at first but kind of think of it when you aren't doing it. Don't think back over what you have done. Don't think of literary form. Let it get out as it wants to. Over tell it in the matter of detail—cutting comes later. The form will develop in the telling.
A FEW FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a memoir?
Memoirs take various forms—and serve various purposes. Some describe a "single slice" life experience. Others tell a fuller life story. Many people begin with a description of a special event and then move to a longer piece—an autobiography, a biography, a family history, an organizational profile.
Why should I create a memoir?
A personal memoir allows one to share insights, observations, and special experiences—and to reveal, relive, and relish memorable moments. A memoir of a beloved family member contributes to the family legacy. An organizational history communicates a company's mssion, values, services, and special capabilities.
Who will do the writing and editing?
You can do as much or as little of the writing as you wish. I’ll help you organize and develop your story—and I'll provide all the research, writing and editing services you need.
Who will create the book?
Various companies provide design and printing services. I can advise you on your choices, but you are free to find your own publishing option. I do not provide production services.
How much will the entire project cost?
Cost depends on various factors, including length and story complexity. I'll help you assess your editorial needs. We can then determine a price and make a firm contractual agreement.
How do I get started?
Some initial cost-free conversations will get us started. We'll develop a preliminary plan—and go from there. I’m here to answer your questions. Please give me a call (651-278-4824 ) or drop me a line (otteson@aol.com). I’ll respond promptly.
Orlo J. Otteson
651-278-4824
otteson@aol.com
