Writing True Stories

AUTHOR: Patti Miller PUBLISHER: Allen and Unwin RRP: $34.99 REVIEWER: Mary Ann Elliott

AWARD-WINNING memoirist and writing guru Patti Miller says, “It is a curious way to spend one’s days; writing memoir and helping others to write theirs. And I do mean curious. Memoir is, for me, the expression of an unending

curiosity - a desire to know the texture of being in the world. What is it really like to be here, not just what it looks like? How is it for me, for you, to be here?”

Wherever she is giving her many workshops, Patti’s sense of curiosity pervades, with a hunger to get to know people and help them find the words to express their personalities and issues.

Many of us try to communicate what it is like to be here as we ponder the mysteries of existence.

If you have wanted to put those thoughts to pen and paper, or I should say, fingers to keyboard, but are lacking confidence, look no further.

Patti’s book overflows with practical advice on how to get started, and breaks down the challenges of writing a memoir or any other kind of book into manageable portions.

Her 10 chapters in part one cover every facet of the writer’s craft including the many pitfalls, in a user-friendly workshop format. In a further 13 chapters she refines the detail of style, form and structure. Lastly Patti offers wise guidance on editing, how to publish, and ends with a reading list, useful contacts and an index.

Whether you are a novice or a more experienced writer, this book is the essential guide for everyone who aspires to write better.