For Bemelmans was 'the man who came to cocktails'. Spare but practical resource for beginners-a good reference for library programs or community workshops.Īn extravaganza in Bemelmans' inimitable vein, but written almost dead pan, with sly, amusing, sometimes biting undertones, breaking through.

Other advice includes a list of go-to reference materials and how to navigate writing about sex. Chapters have catchy subtitles, with easy-to-understand examples, from how to choose a subject to style to editing. Her first-person narrative style is breezy and friendly, and the beginning lays out the three overarching rules for memoir writing. Seasoned writers should proceed with caution: Anyone who has taken Composition 101 will have heard much of this advice before, such as “ write what you know” and “ show, don’t tell.” But readers looking for a push in the right direction will find Smith’s instructions highly accessible and inspiring. Instead, the author uses real, plainspoken examples from her life and writing, such as the memorable story of her mother’s struggle with Alzheimer’s. Smith does not constantly drop famous names or drone on about Paris. She does not use standard and stale exercises or prompts to fill the pages of this slim volume, but rather a blend of anecdotes and unusual tips to help would-be writers “vomit up a draft.” What makes this guide stand out from the rest is its complete lack of academic posturing. Smith, who is also a workshop teacher, gives the honest nuts and bolts of memoir writing. Some people dream of putting their stories in a book while others want to blog, write letters or record family history. Smith ( The Roots of Desire, 2006, etc.) helps kick-start the writing process.Įverybody has a story to tell.

The Roots of Desire by Marion Roach