Memoir: samples to read

To find a memoir to read, it will probably work better to look at some of the links below, rather than just googling. For your third blog post (finding a memoir online that connects to your chosen theme), you can use any of the memoirs listed below–except the student memoirs listed at bottom of page. I’ll try to add some more links shortly (1/26).

Here’s a favorite of mine, from a wonderful book-length memoir called Without a Map by Meredith Hall:

“Killing Chickens“  (this essay would fit the “family” theme)

As you read the essay, pay attention to Hall’s use of sharp images to convey powerful emotion. Think about what the essay is “about,” what universal issues are embedded in Hall’s personal experience. How can you connect to her experiences though you may be no chicken-murderer yourself?

Here’s one that would fit education: Heal McKnight’s “The Hard Part of Community College“

And here’s one that would fit health theme: Alissa Nuttig’s “An Appointment with Dread.” And another nice one from the New York Times: Dana Jennings’s “After Cancer, Everyday Miracles.”

You may find some inspiration, in the form of model essays connected to your theme, by browsing through the site This I Believe.

Here are links to some other sites/literary journals that publish memoirs:

The Sun Magazine: family and relationships; crime; art and creativity; healthcare

Creative Nonfiction

• “The Wolf and the Dog” (education)
• “The Rib Joint” (relationships)

Orion Magazine (this would be a good one to look at for nature memoirs)

Bellevue Literary Review (focuses on health-related issues)

Brevity

Sample student essays

Here’s a great essay that would fit the family theme.

Here’s one the fits a food theme, and here’s one for sports (for these two, right-click and select open in new tab).

Here’s one for nature theme.