In the Life Writers membership, we spend three months studying a published memoir and analyzing the techniques authors use to tell their stories.
Then, we look at how to apply those same strategies to our own writing.
We’ve studied many memoirs of people overcoming incredible challenges—escaping abusive homes, surviving illegal immigration as a child, battling addiction, and facing life-threatening illnesses.
Some members ask, “When will we read a happy memoir?”
I laugh and tell them if they want to read a happy memoir, they best write it themselves!
This month, we’re discussing Growing Up by Russell Baker, journalist and winner of two Pulitzer Prizes.
His memoir isn’t exactly happy, but it’s warm, insightful, and humorous. Have you read it?
What about any well-written, happy memoirs—have you come across any of those?
If so, drop the titles and authors’ names in the comments section below. Some members of Life Writers would love the recommendations.
But whether you’re a happy-memoir lover or enjoy reading life stories of people overcoming struggles, always remember, The only way to do this wrong is to not do it at all!
Until next time, happy writing!
Mary Higgins Clark, Kitchen Privileges, the mystery writer’s memoir is quite happy, and I think delightful. Have just downloaded Russel Bakers book “Growing Up,” with him reading it which to me makes it more authentic. So far, it is great and full of his literary humor with respect to his interaction with his mother. Try it, think you will like it.
I remember reading and loving two memoirs by Ernest Shepard, the artist who created the original illustrations for A.A.Milne’s Winnie the Pooh and The House at Pooh Corner. The books were Drawn from memory and Drawn from life. His recollections of a Victorian childhood weren’t filled with angst and abuse, which is probably why I enjoyed them so much!
Hi Patricia, I have not read this book.
May I suggest the title; ” The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by award-winning author Sherman Alexie.
I think it qualifies as a memoir with a twist. Laughs guaranteed, profound and revealing as well.
It could be a good pick to lighten up many discussions at LW memoir reading. Easy to read and interactive. Love
Thierry
I have not read Growing Up, but I did look and read a sample and “clicked” the Buy Button. It sounds like a good one. Thanks for the recommendation.
Like Ricki, I read this years ago. I was impressed enough by it to later begin to write my story. And, like her, I think I might go in search of it
once again to see what I can glean from it, what I missed.
I did read…years ago. I know I enjoyed it, but I can’t remember why other than the fact that it was very well written. Thanks for sharing it, Patricia. I may search out a copy and read it again.