How to do a good job of mentioning others in your story

Kia ora writers!

Let’s talk about people and how they might appear in your story. For me, this is about accuracy and relationships.

It’s pretty hard to avoid mentioning others in your memoirs, life stories and family histories. If possible, it’s good to take the time to make sure you’re quoting or paraphrasing them correctly. The general rule is, you need to quote them word for word. And if you’re summing up what they said, it’s best to be careful you understand correctly.

Ideally you’ll run whatever you wrote past them, perhaps via email, and receive their blessing, before you publish your book. Perhaps there’s some back and forthing, before they’re happy with what you’re writing about them, and that’s ok. 

Ultimately you’re responsible for whatever you publish or write about the people in your world, it’s a courtesy to check in with the people you write about.

Each of us have our own different perspectives and worldviews, and it’s amazing how different they can be! 

If they’re no longer around, but you have written text from them, for example letters (that you’re allowed to use) or articles (that are on the public record), you can go ahead and use those. 

To sum it up – make sure whatever you’re writing about people is credible and accurate.

Keep writing, one line at a time, because your story matters.

Charlotte x

PS once you’ve written your story you’re going to need a book cover. Check out the closest book cover, look at the images, text, font and colours. There’s more to it than you’d think!

For those who haven’t yet – join my online course Write Your Memoir this month, February 2023, and I’ll throw in a complimentary book cover design package* valued at over $400 AND a discount.

*Book design package includes up to 4 hours of support to create your beautiful book cover. Includes back and front sides, also spine.

Discounts!

To get 10% off Write Your Memoir you can use the following two coupon codes – 

For those who want to pay in full use this code when you pay: 10%offFeb

For those who want to use the payment plan, use this code: 10%offFebpaymentplan