Frequently Asked Questions
What is a memoir?
A memoir is your personal life story told in your own voice. Unlike a formal autobiography, a memoir focuses on your experiences, memories, reflections and the moments that have shaped your life.
What if I don’t think my life is interesting enough?
Many people feel this way at first. The truth is that every life contains stories worth preserving. Your family loves you, and future generations will want to know who you were, what your life was like, and where they came from. Often, the stories we think are ordinary are the ones that become most treasured.
Do I need to be a writer?
Not at all. We take care of the writing for you. Some clients begin by sharing memories through email before moving on to telephone or video conversations when they feel comfortable.
Can I include photographs, letters or other documents?
Yes. Photographs, letters, certificates and other personal documents can all be included in your memoir. We can also enhance many older photographs to improve their appearance, although the results will depend on the condition and quality of the original image.
How does the memoir-writing process work?
We listen carefully to your stories, make detailed notes, and—with your permission—record conversations to help us accurately capture your voice and memories. Recordings are used only for the creation of your memoir and are securely destroyed once the project is complete.
How are interviews conducted?
The choice is yours. Some clients begin with telephone conversations, while others prefer video calls. Hearing the way you tell your stories helps us understand your personality, language and unique voice, allowing us to create a memoir that feels genuinely yours.
How many interviews are included?
The number of interviews depends on the package you choose. Some memoirs require only a few conversations, while others involve more extensive interviews. Full details can be found on our Pricing page.
How long does the process take?
Most memoirs are completed within three to seven months, depending on the package selected and the complexity of the project. We aim to complete all memoirs within seven months.
Can family members contribute memories or information?
Yes. Family members are welcome to contribute information and memories. However, we encourage contributions to be shared through you wherever possible so that the memoir remains true to your own voice, style and perspective.
What if I can’t remember exact dates or details?
Memoirs are about personal experience and lived memory. While exact dates and details can be helpful, they are not essential to telling your story. If historical accuracy is important for particular events, we can often help through careful research and historical investigation.
Do I have control over what is included in my memoir?
Absolutely. It is your life story, and you decide what is included. We will never include anything without your approval.
Can I make changes before the memoir is finished?
Yes. You will have the opportunity to review each chapter and suggest changes throughout the process. Before printing, you will also receive the completed memoir for final approval. Any changes requested after final approval and printing may incur additional charges.
Will my information remain confidential?
Yes. Your privacy is extremely important to us. Information shared during the memoir-writing process is treated with complete confidentiality and is only accessible to those directly involved in creating your memoir.
Who owns the finished memoir?
You do. Your memoir belongs entirely to you.
Can a memoir be commissioned as a gift?
Yes. Many memoirs begin as gifts from children, grandchildren or other loved ones. Because a memoir is a personal story, the individual whose life is being recorded should be willing to participate in the process. We are happy to discuss gift options during an initial consultation.
Do you provide printed and digital copies?
Yes. Every memoir includes a professionally printed copy and a digital version. Covers can feature your own photographs or a bespoke design, depending on your preferences and the suitability of the images provided.
Can I order additional copies?
Yes. Additional copies can be ordered for family members and friends.
What happens if I become unwell during the project?
If you become unwell, we can pause the project until you are ready to continue. In some circumstances, and with your permission, a family member may help complete the memoir. If the project cannot continue, we will discuss the options with you and, where appropriate, provide a partial refund based on the work already completed.
What makes MemoryScribe different?
MemoryScribe combines expertise in memoir writing, counselling-informed interviewing and oral history research.
Our interviewers are trained in counselling skills and understand that not all memories are easy to revisit. We approach every story with care, sensitivity and respect.
Your memoir is written by an experienced writer with specialist training in memoir writing, supported by doctoral-level expertise in oral history when historical research or contextual accuracy is required.
As a family-run business, we believe every life has value and every story deserves to be preserved. Through memoir writing, we help create lasting records for future generations, ensuring that personal histories are not lost with time.