Changing the Ending: How Writing Your Life Story Transforms Your Life

What if writing your memoir, autobiography, or family history story could heal old wounds, bring your family closer, and give you a renewed sense of purpose? The personal stories you write today are like love letters sent into the future, arriving when others need a boost in difficult moments of their lives. Writing is a transformational journey, and it will have a profound impact on you and the people you care about most.

Rhonda Lauritzen and Rachel J. Trotter are seasoned biographers, conference speakers, and magazine contributors who share proven methods that have helped thousands of students and clients. Whether you're a beginner, a genealogist, or a lifelong writer, this practical guide will inspire you from start to completion. It is like having two encouraging mentors walk with you on your journey.

You'll discover:

The surprising power of story: How writing personal and family history stories reshapes difficult experiences into triumph, builds family bonds, and creates meaning. Real experiences of students and clients: You, too, can experience the magic that happens when people connect through storytelling. Field-tested ways to gather memories: Try fun photo prompts, journaling methods, and an approach to oral history refined from thousands of interviews. Tools to organize and write with confidence: Practice storyboard techniques, vignette writing, dialogue tips, handling sensitive subjects, and overcoming procrastination or insecurity. Special guidance for family history and ancestor stories: Craft engaging narratives without overstepping the truth, and weave in just the right historical context to find the sweet spot of not too much or too little.