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472nd out of 747 books
—
386 voters
The Memoir Project: A Thoroughly Non-Standardized Text for Writing & Life
A recent study revealed that the Number 1 thing that baby boomers want to do in retirement is write a book....about themselves. It's not that every person has lived such a unique or dramatic life, but we inherently understand that writing memoir-whether it's a book, blog, or just a letter to a child-is the single greatest portal to self-examination.
While there have been o...more
While there have been o...more
Paperback, 128 pages
Published
June 9th 2011
by Grand Central Publishing
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Loved this book and the voice Roach has in it. While this subtitle calls itself "non-standard," the advice contained within is what you'll hear in college courses. She has great delivery and this a great volume of compacted advice. It may be that the newbie writer might need some practice for her condemned "writing prompts" to get the juices flowing.
I read this in prep for a memoir writing workshop I'm teaching in April. This book has really excited me about working with memoir writers!
I read this in prep for a memoir writing workshop I'm teaching in April. This book has really excited me about working with memoir writers!
"The Memoir Project: A Thoroughly Non-Standardized Text for Writing & Life"�, by Marion Roach Smith, provides original, humorous and effective methods to make the dream of writing your story a reality. The author encourages aspiring memoirists to "write on" with intent and purpose.
I always thought a memoir would be about me...me...me. Mrs. Smith advises the writer to ask the following question, "What is this about?" The writer must decide on a theme for the story and then use personal exper...more
I always thought a memoir would be about me...me...me. Mrs. Smith advises the writer to ask the following question, "What is this about?" The writer must decide on a theme for the story and then use personal exper...more
First impression
When I saw the slim book at the bookstore, I had a mixed reaction, part curiosity and part snicker. Nevertheless, curiosity being the stronger of the two, the book found its way into my hands and they were turning the pages before I even had time to consider other options.
The only other book about writing that I’ve read was Stephen King’s “On Writing”, and just like the first time I held that book, I was baffled by the size. Weren’t these types of books supposed to be thicker? I...more
When I saw the slim book at the bookstore, I had a mixed reaction, part curiosity and part snicker. Nevertheless, curiosity being the stronger of the two, the book found its way into my hands and they were turning the pages before I even had time to consider other options.
The only other book about writing that I’ve read was Stephen King’s “On Writing”, and just like the first time I held that book, I was baffled by the size. Weren’t these types of books supposed to be thicker? I...more
I give this five starts, which in the language of GoodReads means "It was amazing." What is amazing about Ms. Smith's accomplishment is that she has fit about 400 pages of information and ideas and inspiration into a mere 114 pages. I read some of it on the Red Line going to the State House or Boston Public Library, laughing out loud or exclaming "Wow!" enough to make my fellow passengers wonder, "What's with this guy?" I won't try to summarize it, I'll just wholeheartedly recommend this - not j...more
This is the most inspiring book I've read about writing! I would love to give it TEN stars. Devoured it and then went back for seconds. After that, I went through it again as if to memorize certain sections and will be returning for another portion when a break from writing is warranted...amazing...(-:
Marion hit the nail on the head with this one. It's as if she has been reading my mail. I'm all about lessons-learned. Coming from a technical background in writing, I want my memoirs to share wisd...more
Marion hit the nail on the head with this one. It's as if she has been reading my mail. I'm all about lessons-learned. Coming from a technical background in writing, I want my memoirs to share wisd...more
I occasionally read these how-to-write books, because it's easier and far more enjoyable than actually writing. This little one is awesome for a number of reasons, and highly recommended:
1. The author's first directive is to never, ever write from a prompt.
2. The author seamlessly weaves snippets of her own memoir writing, such as a few paragraphs from an essay here and there, into the text, only calling attention to what the example conveys or illustrates after the reader has read it.
3. The au...more
1. The author's first directive is to never, ever write from a prompt.
2. The author seamlessly weaves snippets of her own memoir writing, such as a few paragraphs from an essay here and there, into the text, only calling attention to what the example conveys or illustrates after the reader has read it.
3. The au...more
This book was helpful in learning how one approaches writing a memoir. I like the flow and style of Marion's book. It isn't so much a "how to" book but a folllow by example book. She wrties bits of her own memoir inthe book which serve as perfect examples for what she is trying to convey! My favorite part of the book was when Marion discussed writing about a holiday, and not having the holiday be the focus but the backdrop where your story naturally conveys the meaning of thankfulness or joy. He...more
This is the third book I've read on writing in the last 6 months and I didn't think Roach would have anything unique to add. I was wrong.
This is memoir, which is vastly different from fiction. She explained how to make memoir interesting. How to find the right angle, oddly enough, by using an algorithm. "This is an (x) and the illustration is (y.)" Sounds ridiculous, right? Well, it's brilliant.
I loved her concepts and her illustrations. The section on how to edit was especially helpful. It's...more
This is memoir, which is vastly different from fiction. She explained how to make memoir interesting. How to find the right angle, oddly enough, by using an algorithm. "This is an (x) and the illustration is (y.)" Sounds ridiculous, right? Well, it's brilliant.
I loved her concepts and her illustrations. The section on how to edit was especially helpful. It's...more
I was lucky enough to catch the author's interview on NPR, and felt compelled to get this book. I picked up the kindle edition and devoured it in one sitting. I have since read and re read many parts of the book multiple times. This book is funny and light, and yet cuts directly to the core of what it takes to be a memoir writer ~ or any type of writer for that matter. This book has helped me become a better blogger, and writer, and has pushed me to actually start the book I've always known I ne...more
Aug 25, 2011
Carolyn
marked it as to-read
I heard a snippet of an interview with the author on NPR and learned that she is both a fellow alum of my college and a superb speaker - so much so that when I got home I googled the interview and listened to it in its entirety. I have been wanting to write something (anything!) for years but lacking guidance and confidence in this area, I have written nothing. The interview was relatively short (a half hour or so) but Ms. Roach Smith outlined several easy and helpful tips to get started. She wa...more
I absolutely loved this book! The authors of many writing books yammer on about how they 1) were awesome coming out of the gate and 2) the writing process is overly complicated and intimidating. Smith manages to distill the essence of memoir writing into 114 pages of substantive information. I was particularly happy to come up with several essay ideas while reading by using her methods. I checked this book out from the library but will be purchasing a copy to return to as reference in the future...more
The author does a good job of convincing me to put the "writing prompt" books aside and really write my heart. Probably the most effective technique used in this book is the interweaving of vignettes; in teaching us how to approach the great, big, scary topic of "memoir" the author also demonstrates the craft by showing us how life stories can be seamlessly used to illustrate universal heart truths. A great, quick read.
I'm caught between a 4 and a 5 because I really liked some of the ideas and the way the author is so precise and cuts away the B.S. but there was something about her voice/personality that I couldn't quite get with. I think I was comparing her to Anne Lamott who I love. But simplifying and clarifying the topic you are writing about was described in an exciting way which got me inspired to write, which is a huge accomplishment for a writing book.
From the moment I picked up this little book, with its pen and ink drawings on the cover, I was hooked. I read it from cover to cover very quickly, and now keep it beside my writing chair to reread various sections more thoroughly. The suggestions have helped me "keep to the thought" as I write my own essays and blog posts. A "must-read" for anyone who enjoys writing and reflecting on life.
At last, a no nonsense guide for the beginning memoir writer! After plodding through how-to books with endless exercises I finally found some practical guidance for putting my ideas into words. I first read it as a library book, then purchased it for myself for later reference. Smith's humor was a bonus and the 114 pages flew by. I strongly recommend this book.
Even though the topic is on memoir, I recommend The Memoir Project to anyone who writes any type of nonfiction. The book reads quickly and is easy to follow. Filled with great examples on extracting writing ideas from seemingly mundane scenarios, the book offers valuable advise for writers looking for fresh perspectives on tired or mundane subjects.
I loved this book, it is by far the most helpful book on writing I've read. It's full of "how to" things you can put into use right now, not in some lofty time in the future. and no more exercises! yeah, it's full of meat and potatoes, not fluff, thank you Marion. I'm in your class at Chautauqua, NY and now I can't wait for it to start.
One of the best books on writing that I have read thus far. I don't currently own it but have put it on my wish list and plan on getting it as soon as possible. Already it has helped me to write with intent and structure. The two things that were stopping me from starting.
Sep 18, 2011
Autumn
rated it
5 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
Gabrielle
Recommended to Autumn by:
NPR
Shelves:
writing
This short book of less than 100 pages is one of the best writing books I've ever read. I felt as if I had a writing teacher/coach sitting right beside me. She makes writing seem so simple by just cutting out nonessential activities we do because we think that is what writers need to do to be creative. The subject is memoir but I think it could apply, at least in a broad sense, to any genre.
I actually ended up buying my own copy of this book because I enjoyed the first couple of chapters so much, and the price was reasonable, presumably because of its small, slim size. A very simple paperback publication, but I like what she has to say so far--humorous, but she doesn't mess around about the nature of memoir writing.
Excellent, inspiring book on writing memoirs and personal essays. Though a slim 114 pages, it packs in a tremendous amount of information without all the woo-woo faux mysticism of a lot of other writing books.
I enjoyed The Memoir Project both for its entertainment value and for its dead-practical tips on writing nonfiction well. This slim volume (114 pages) is well worth spending an afternoon on.
This is my favorite book on writing memoir... and I have read many. Roach Smith takes everyday ideas and demonstrates how to use those in writing memoir. Must read for all writers.
This book was beautifully written, challenging and inspiring. I will be purchasing it so that I can underline it and keep it near my bed. If you're interested in writing about true things, you should read this book. Period.
I am really enjoying this book. It's taking the genre and breaking it down into effective segments that are not so intimidating. Plus it's a good read to boot!
It was all right. A few good quotations, as well as the only writing book that has ever said that writing exercises are pretty much worthless.
Clear, concise with multiple pearls, told in an engaging manner. Made me believe, I, too, could possibly, with a lot of hard work, write a memoir.
A fun, breezy, honest, and inspiring read. After checking this book out from the library a few days ago, I had some good laughs and learned a few things about writing along the way.
What a great read. The 'aha' moment, her own stories and all the way through, clear and unequivocal advice. One of the best investments I've made this year. Bravo!
A must-read for aspiring memoirists. Gets to the heart of good writing and is such an enjoyable read. Thanks for the recommendation, Jill!
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| topics | posts | views | last activity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Writing memoir after reading The Memoir Project | 2 | 5 | 17 lug. 18:53 |
