I teach memoir writing classes to new and advanced writers from all walks of life in the spring and fall at the Transylvania County Library in Brevard, NC.  My weekly two-hour class runs eight weeks and focuses on learning how to successfully write short form memoir – the precursor to writing a book-length memoir. The class and I gently critique the stories and I provide suggested written edits, something rarely offered in writing classes. At the end of the class, students read one of the three 750-word stories they have written to the public in “A Memoir Evening at the Library.” 

Why I Teach Memoir Writing

I have loved the memoir genre since I embarked on writing my own about my son who died at ten from a congenital heart defect. I worked on the story of Lucien’s short life for years, for he was no ordinary boy, but an extraordinarily brave one who touched the hearts of many and taught us all.  Finally, with some regret, I put the memoir away for it seemed to have served its purpose.

Having lived with my memoir for so long, I know the value of writing one.  It can bring all kinds of gifts to a life.  It can save one, too, for it surely saved mine. 

Revisiting one’s life by writing about it is fun, but it is also a courageous act that stretches a person, makes one more conscious, and more fully alive.

Helping people find meaning in their lives in this unique way continues to be an honor and a privilege – as is bearing witness to their stories, over and over.  Well, there’s a lot of joy in that, too.

Memoir Writing Workshops

In winter, I lead a six-week Winter Writers Workshop in my home for eight to ten current or former students who write three 1,500-word stories. Everyone orally critiques the stories and I also provide suggested written edits. Occasionally, I run spring and summer writing workshops.

If you’re interested in taking a memoir writing class at the Transylvania County Library or being part of a writing workshop, please email me for details.

Services

I offer writing, editing, and coaching services to current and former students. I particularly enjoy helping writers develop and structure their book-length memoirs.