A family memoir as a gift for a parent or grandparent
Most people are never asked to tell their whole story. A memoir commission is the gift of being asked — and of a book that keeps the answers for the grandchildren.
A gift that takes months to unwrap
The gift is the whole commission: the conversations, the research, the writing, and the printed book. You present it on the day; we begin when the narrator is ready; and the family receives the finished memoir in the months that follow.
From the first call to the book on the shelf
We talk with you first
Privately, about who they are, the stories you hope to keep, and how you would like to present the gift.
You give it
A printed gift letter to open on the day, explaining what is coming and who will be in touch.
We begin when they're ready
There is no deadline. The first conversation is gentle, and the narrator sets the pace from then on.
The family receives the book
Copies for the narrator, for you, and for every branch of the family.
What the finished book looks likeWhen a memoir makes sense as a gift
Given together
A memoir is often given by brothers and sisters together. We can divide the commission into shares, so each of you pays your own part directly.
Before you give it
Can it be a surprise?
The gift can be; the interviews can't. We always ask for the narrator's own consent before we begin, and we never start without it.
What if they say they have nothing interesting to tell?
It is usually the first thing people say. The first conversation is short and unhurried, the questions do the work, and a single photograph is often enough to begin.
What if their health is fragile?
Sessions can be short, held at home, and spread out as needed. Family members are welcome to sit in and help.
How much does it cost?
Memoir commissions begin at $10,000, agreed in writing before anything starts. The person giving the gift is our client; the narrator never sees an invoice.
Give the gift of being asked
Tell us about the person you have in mind. We'll suggest how to present the gift, and how we would begin.
Arrange a memoir gift