Have you ever considered writing your memoirs but don’t how to do so? If so, you must check out the Staff Picks Display in the second floor library. There you will find many books on where to begin and how to craft your memoir. Keep in mind that memoir writing will stir up a lot of emotions and one minute you’ll be laughing and the next you’ll be crying as you relive certain memories. In a way, writing a memoir is like having a second chance at life. It’s a way of reliving the past – but this time around you know the ending. To help inspire you with your writing, fictional memoirs, graphic novels, and biographies are included in the display. Many more biographies can be found in section 92 on floor 2A of the library.
For those who want to write, Taryn recommends:
Naked, Drunk and Writing by Adair Lara
You may remember Adair Lara from her days as SF Chronicle columnist - she's still hilarious and teaching a class in October on the art of memoir.
You Can’t Make This Stuff Up by Lee Gutkind
Lee Gutkind is a god of creative non-fiction from essays to memoir.
Dear Mister Essay Writer Guy by Dinty W. Moore
Funny and waggish writing advice from a guy (not) named for beef stew.
Handling the Truth: on the writing of memoir by Beth Kephart
The book to read before you start writing.
For those who want to be inspired by another’s memoir, Myles recommends:
Louie, take a look at this! : my time with Huell Howser by Luis Fuerte as told to David Duron
An account of the long running California's Gold television program on California Public Broadcasting from the perspective of the camera operator, Luis Fuerte. I was a fan of the show, but I especially like this book because my grandfather was also camera operator, who worked on CBS shows like Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour, and The Young and the Restless. It is interesting to read what one has to say who was not the center of attention but was there for every moment. A must read for every California's Gold fan.
For memoirs in graphic novel format, Erik recommends:
Flying Couch by Amy Kurzweil
Calling Dr. Laura by Nicole J. Georges
For fictional memoirs, Kristin recommends:
Memoirs of a Polar Bear by Yoko Tawada
Three generations of Polar bears share their story of growing up in East Germany during the cold war. Quirky literature at its best.
And finally, for those who keep diaries, Kristin recommends:
Theft by Finding: Diaries (1977-2002) by David Sedaris
Forty years of secrets, gossip, and soap opera plots are recorded in David Sedaris’ diary. His wish is for the reader to read the entries at random, not cover to cover. It will be much more enjoyable that way. And he’s right, flip though the pages and read what catches your eye and you will not be disappointed.
