Dive into summer with a captivating memoir
As the calendar inches toward Memorial Day, the “official” start of summer, it’s not too early to start building your summer reading library. In case you haven’t noticed, memoirs are one of my favorite genres. My go-to reads are usually non-fiction, with historical fiction coming in second.
Thanks to my book club, I’ve also explored titles I may never have given a second glance like, A Man Called Ove, Absolution, and West with Giraffes. One of the best pieces of writing advice I received wasn’t to take classes, brush up on grammar, or hire a coach, although those are sound ideas for anyone who wants to improve their craft.
The most consistent advice I received from seasoned writers was to read. That’s right. Read books in your genre, in this case, memoir; but also read literature that you may not immediately be drawn to.
Notice how scenes are crafted and how dialogue is constructed and delivered. Both also exist in memoirs, which is why I’m sharing some of my favorites. Perhaps you’ll add them to your summer reading stack.
As a published author and avid reader, I've always found memoirs to be a particularly satisfying genre to explore during the warmer months. There's something about the intimacy of a personal narrative that pairs perfectly with the laid-back vibe of summer. Here’s a curated list of my favorite memoirs that are not only captivating reads but also ideal companions for lazy days by the pool or quiet evenings on the porch swing.
Educated, by Tara Westover: This powerful memoir chronicles Westover's journey from a childhood in rural Idaho, raised by survivalist parents with no formal education, to earning a PhD from Cambridge University. Her resilience and quest for knowledge are both inspiring and thought-provoking.
Look For Me There: Grieving My Father, Finding Myself, by Luke Russert. This is a poignant memoir that delves into the complexities of grief, loss, and the journey toward healing. In this deeply personal narrative, Russert reflects on his relationship with his father, legendary journalist Tim Russert, and grapples with the profound impact of his father's untimely death. Through heartfelt storytelling and candid introspection, Russert explores the challenges of navigating life without his father's guidance and mentorship. He shares intimate memories of their bond, from childhood adventures to heartfelt conversations about life, politics, and family.
Becoming, by Michelle Obama: In this deeply personal memoir, the former First Lady invites readers into her world, from her humble beginnings on the South Side of Chicago to her years in the White House. With grace and honesty, Obama shares her triumphs and challenges, inspiring readers to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery.
The Rabbi's Daughter is a compelling memoir by Reva Mann, offering a poignant exploration of identity, faith, and the complexities of family. Mann candidly recounts her journey growing up as the daughter of a prominent rabbi in a strict Orthodox Jewish community while struggling to reconcile her religious upbringing with her own desires and beliefs. As she grapples with the pressures of conformity and the longing for personal freedom, Mann embarks on a soul-searching quest that takes her from the insular world of Orthodox Judaism to the bustling streets of London and beyond. With honesty and insight, "The Rabbi's Daughter" delves into themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.
Know My Name by Chanel Miller is a courageous and deeply moving memoir that gives voice to a survivor's journey toward healing and reclaiming her identity. In this powerful narrative, Miller shares her harrowing experience as the victim of sexual assault on the Stanford University campus and the subsequent trial that garnered national attention. With unflinching honesty and poetic prose, she confronts the trauma of her assault, the challenges of navigating the criminal justice system, and the complexities of healing in the aftermath of trauma. Through her brave and illuminating storytelling, Miller sheds light on the pervasive culture of sexual violence and the resilience of the human spirit. "Know My Name" is a testament to the strength of survivors and a call to action for empathy, understanding, and justice.
Memoirs offer a unique opportunity to step into someone else's shoes, experiencing the world through their eyes and gaining insights into human experience. Whether it's finding inspiration in tales of overcoming adversity or simply enjoying a good laugh, memoirs have a way of resonating with readers on a deeply personal level.
Because you may be considering penning your own memoir, I’m delighted to share with you this resource, Crafting Memoirs: Top 10 Components for Aspiring Authors. You can download it HERE. I hope it’s helpful as you navigate your author journey.
I’m always looking for new reads, and the slower pace of summer is the perfect time to indulge in a good book, or 2 or 3! I’d love to hear your memoir recommendations. Feel free to reply to this email.
Happy reading!