Before I go into the tips, let me share a few pieces of feedback I received for my memoir. As I was writing, I sent each chapter to four of my relatives in India to get their input. They all gave me good feedback. That kept me going.
Once the book was completed, I created the Amazon Kindle book listing on Amazon. As part of pre-ordering the eBook, I offered the PDF version for those who pre-ordered the eBook. The eBook is being released on 01 November. As of today (21 Oct), I have received seven feedback from people who have read the book cover to cover. Some of the words in all those seven feedback texts were words like “captivating”, “Inspiring”, “Engaging”, etc..
With that said, I will be happy to explain how I did it. Perhaps there are things you can benefit from it. You may have a better approach than I. Adopt what works for you.
The first and foremost tip in writing a memoir would be that the story has to be authentic. Never try to exaggerate or cut short. An authentic story emanating from one heart will resonate with other hearts.
I stated only good things about people. A lot of people helped me. I said good things about myself. I avoided any bad experiences with people. The book should last forever. I do not want to leave any negative comments about anyone for people to read for eternity. I do not see a benefit in that. Hence, I avoided any negative reactions from people.
One important thing I read and perhaps also listed from some of the YouTube videos is that, in writing your stories, do not just say this happened and that happened. Rather, show them what happened. Meaning, when you are explaining events, describe the surroundings, the air, the place, etc, in a way that the reader can “see” like in a movie. That will bring a lot of interest in reading your memoir.
I did not include a lot of things that could bring embarrassment to me. Some of those things had to do with my age and other weaknesses. If I were to write them in my memoir, then I might leave people with the impression that I have weaknesses, though those were the times of my childhood. I do not see any benefit to anyone in writing those things.
If you are planning to write a book, here is my advice.
- Sit down and identify the things that are consuming your time.
- Divide them between what cannot be avoided (like a job or a business) and what can be discarded.
- Set aside time to write. Some writers wake up at 4 in the morning to write. It might be different for you. Find what works for you.
- Do not look at the quality of writing. Do your best and move on. You can do the editing later.
- Share your writing with one or more of your close family members or friends and seek their feedback.
- Set a realistic target date to finish writing.
- Announce on social media or among your friends about what you are writing. This will help you stay on the job.
I wish you all the best in writing your book.