Most people have an interesting life story or family history and many toy with the idea of writing it – someday. Initially there are more questions than answers. Where to start? How to tell the story? What to include or leave out? What period should it cover? It can be overwhelming.

Amanda Hampson, author of two novels and teacher/mentor for aspiring novelists, realised than many of the techniques of fiction writing such as structure, pace, description and dialogue could be equally be applied to writing memoir or family history to turn anecdotes and facts into a great read.

Drawing from her writing and teaching experience, she developed a unique technique called ‘Memoir Made Simple’ that will teach you everything you need to know to turn your story into a great read. Learn how to get your material organised, turn memories into stories, write dialogue and description and find your voice – and learn how to stay motivated.

With self-publishing cheaper and simpler than ever before, writing your life story could be the most rewarding project you have ever undertaken. Many of Amanda’s memoir students have subsequently completed and published their books as a family heirloom for generations to come.

Amanda Hampson brings her six week memoir course to the Centre at the end of April.