The prolific writer and first-time book author tells us how she finds the strength to write about her most vulnerable experiences—and how she reframed her memoir concept and landed a book deal.
I'm late in watching this video, but wanted to thank Melissa for her openness in sharing the process involved in getting her memoir into a "different container" as a hybrid memoir. Lots of great info to think about. Thank you both!
Great talk. I wonder if writing the whole manuscript first is the key to getting an agents attention. I've been struggling to figure out my structure and ultimately can't get the manuscript done.
Because most books are sold on proposal these days, even literary memoir— and because agents like to have a hand in the shaping of the project— I'd say no, it's better to have a strong proposal including 1-3 solid sample chapters than a whole book. Part of a book proposal is a chapter outline. This is a good place to start if you're struggling with structure. When I work as a book coach or ghostwriter, we go over premise, promise, audience, and comps. Then we nail down a chapter outline. Then we start writing.
“Turn outward” is extremely valuable advice and can be the most difficult. A process I hope to improve on.
Thanks so much. Very informative!
I'm late in watching this video, but wanted to thank Melissa for her openness in sharing the process involved in getting her memoir into a "different container" as a hybrid memoir. Lots of great info to think about. Thank you both!
Great talk. I wonder if writing the whole manuscript first is the key to getting an agents attention. I've been struggling to figure out my structure and ultimately can't get the manuscript done.
Because most books are sold on proposal these days, even literary memoir— and because agents like to have a hand in the shaping of the project— I'd say no, it's better to have a strong proposal including 1-3 solid sample chapters than a whole book. Part of a book proposal is a chapter outline. This is a good place to start if you're struggling with structure. When I work as a book coach or ghostwriter, we go over premise, promise, audience, and comps. Then we nail down a chapter outline. Then we start writing.
Thank you!