Keepsake Memoirs

Capture your past today....to share with your loved ones tomorrow

“There is so much anticipation and excitement in the family as the book nears completion. I could never have imagined how much Dad (and the rest of us) would enjoy his gift.”
                       -Bob V.
 

Before the interview, you receive a list of questions that will “prime the pump” of your memory.   We arrange to meet in the comfort of your home or a location of your choice, and in a relaxed atmosphere, I help you capture memories of the past.  As we chat, clients are often surprised at what they can remember.  Most lifestories can be recorded in 8 hours of interview time, which would take place over 2 or 3 days.

The tapes are then transcribed and edited.  The word-for-word text is moulded into a readable, first-person narrative, taking care to retain the speaker’s character and voice.  Next, the story is divided into segments:  either vignettes or time periods to give it structure. 

Proofreading:  We use two readers to double-check for accuracy of grammar, spelling, punctuation and syntax.

The manuscript is returned to you to check for accuracy of content and make any changes, additions or deletions.  You have complete control over the content of the book.  Photographs and other documents are selected.  These can include letters, recipes, a family tree, certificates or other memorabilia.

A graphic designer lays out the manuscript in book format, incorporating photographs, table of contents and desired appendices.

Printing and Binding:  The pages are professionally printed on archival paper and bound into a book style of your choice.

It takes about 3 to 4 months to complete a personal history.