Creating a life story is easier than you might think. Here are some of the FAQ – the questions I get asked most often.
How long does it take?
Capturing the information doesn’t take long. Four one-hour Zoom calls are enough for a 10,000-word book. A more comprehensive 60,000-word book can be completed after 10 to 12 hours of interviews. The frequency of the interviews can be daily or weekly, depending on how quickly you want to progress. I can also travel to conduct face-to-face interviews over the course of one or two days if speed is important.
What about the writing?
Once the interviews are complete, writing can take between one month and six months, depending on the project size.
How do you know what to ask?
We have an initial interview to determine the focus of the book – early life, family history, career, etc. – and I work from there. I’ve been interviewing people for over thirty years, so I know how to help my subjects open up.
What if there is something we don’t want to include?
Every family has some stories that are best left alone, and I always respect my clients’ wishes if there are people or situations they don’t want to discuss or include.
What is the review process?
After the interviews, I will write an outline of the story for you to approve. I’ll then produce a couple of sample chapters to ensure that you are happy with the style and voice. Once the first draft has been written, you get to review and amend, and we’ll add in any photos and captions that you want. After a final review of the pages, we’ll get it printed.
What is voice?
Most life stories are captured on behalf of an individual and written in the first person, so from their perspective. The narrative must sound as if they have written it themselves, so I work hard to ensure that their tone of voice, use of words, and general demeanour come through on the page.
What do I get at the end?
A set of professionally printed hardback books, with the narrative illustrated by full-colour photos.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary from £1,500 to £15,000 +, depending on the size and complexity of the project. I’ll always provide a no-obligation quote.
Can I give this as a present?
Of course! I’ve even been able to complete projects as a surprise.
My mother has already passed away. Can you still help capture her life?
Yes, depending on the available archive material and the number of people willing to be interviewed about their memories of the subject. A book produced like this can make a wonderful keepsake.
I want to do this for my father, but he says his life isn’t interesting enough.
This comes up a lot! Older people often feel that they are nothing special, and that no one would be interested, but I’ve never met anyone whose life isn’t fascinating in one way or another. Talking to them about the family knowledge that can be passed down to future generations can help, as can getting them to recall specific memories from their past. Try to record these if you can; then at least you have something! I’m happy to have an obligation-free call with you and your parent to discuss how a life story project would work for them.
Do I have to capture my whole life?
No. You can choose what you want to focus on – just your early years, life before children, building your business – we can do any or all of it.
How do I start?
Just email me at sue@sueransom.com to book an obligation-free call.