Writing Your Life: A Guide to Writing Autobiographies

by Mary Borg

To many, the task of writing about one’s life seems daunting and difficult. Where does one begin? What stories will inspire your children and grandchildren, and which will simply amuse them? "Writing Your Life: A Guide to Writing Autobiographies" breaks down the barriers of personal narrative with an easy-to-follow guide that includes thought-provoking questions, encouraging suggestions, memory-jogging activities, tips for writing, advice on publishing one’s stories in print and online, and examples of ordinary people’s writing. "Writing Your Life" has already helped thousands write their life stories, and this fourth edition is sure to help today’s writers preserve their memories and wisdom for many generations to come.

Genres: Writing

208 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1995

Reviews

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I already did some writing while reading which is what took so long to read it. I plan to use it for more memoir writing which I eventually will make a full autobiography one day from. A great help to anyone who wishes to write their memoirs.

[Betsy Starks · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I were still living in Colorado, I would take Mary Borg’s class as I have heard it is excellent. Next best is reading her book. Now I only need to find the time to write! First though, I must finish the family genealogy book. So much to do. So little time.

[Henry L. Harper]

Good material if you are thinking about writing your life story.

[Mike Limon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book from Goodreads in one of their giveaways when I first joined. I was thrilled to win this because as a writer, these type of "how to" books always catch my attention in the bookstore. There are many and I mean many of these types of books out there. They all seem to have the same title, "How to write your life's story, write your story," etc. What makes Mary Borg's book different is that she takes the reader/writer by the hand, and shows them how to write an effective autobiography. She uses very down to earth and simple directions which makes it fun. Mary gives the reader several ideas to start out with leaving the reader with no excuse for not starting today. I particularly enjoyed the writing tips, reading suggestions, and examples from everyday people, that Borg has included in every chapter. She gives the reader a blueprint to use, beginning from childhood to adulthood, and includes many thought-provoking questions to write about. Questions such as, "What is your favorite color, time of the year, favorite holiday," gives both the beginner or seasoned professional a plethora of starting points in beginning their own story. She also answers questions like why write my autobiography, what would I include it it, who would I write if for, and who could possibly want to read it? Don't think for a moment that your story is not interesting enough to read. No two people have lived the same life. It has been said that writing is hard, and perhaps that has kept many people from writing their autobiographies, but Mary Borg makes it looks so easy, and with her help, it is. I highly recommend this book, even if only to record the stories of your life for your children to pass onto their children someday. You will not be disappointed by this book.

[James Geddes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone interested in writing their own autobiography will find Mary Borg's book helpful.
Writing your autobiography need not be complicated. Mary provides a well organized approach
with plenty of room for doing your own thing.

[Aw. T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Text for class.