Writing a memoir is like writing a personal essay except that it is much longer. Consequently, you need to master the same skills and writing techniques that you learned in Chapter 17. But if it is a book-length memoir you are considering, you might want to try the following exercises to get you started.

EXERCISE 1

With what you have learned in this chapter, focus on a segment of your life that you find compelling; that you want to write about; and that will also interest others. Draft an outline of the people, places, events, and what occurred. You can also make notes on any thoughts or insights you want to share with the reader. Finally, check all the facts to make sure what you present is accurate.

EXERCISE 2

After a few days or more, critically examine your outline and decide if it fits the criteria of a memoir. If so, proceed to write in a range between twenty-five and fifty pages. Following that, rewrite and edit and so on…. You know the drill by now.