Memoir can be an excellent vehicle for writers wanting to share stories of real life experiences and struggles. Writing about a personal experience can certainly be an effective way to connect with others, but turning an idea into a full-length book that engages readers and keeps them turning the pages comes with many challenges.In this session with ALC's Manager of Author Education, Sheila Manna, writers learn what a book's "marketability" means, why it’s so important, and 10 valuable tips to ensure you create a memoir that captures the attention of agents, publishers, and readers. This presentation includes discussions around:
• Knowing your target reader• Identifying your universal theme/s• The power of transformative storytelling• Building your author platform• Strengthening your pitch to agents and publishers• And more!
Sheila also reviews the major markets for memoir, and the various options for getting your personal stories and creative nonfiction published and in the hands of readers.
Here is the handout referenced in the session:Marketable Memoirs_ALC Handout.pdf
About the Presenter:Over the last eight years, Sheila has transferred her many years of product management and marketing communication experiences to the publishing industry, where she focuses on helping authors write and edit their best books, find a publishing path that works for them, and successfully build a readership through effective marketing strategies. As the Manager of Author Education for the ALC, Sheila develops and manages all of the website’s content and tools including webinar events, special programs, educational resources, and community engagement, while providing author support and guidance as needed.