The Process

• Free initial conversation. In person, by phone, or by e-mail, we will discuss your vision and hopes for the life story project you have in mind. I will provide samples of my work.
• Proposal. Within a few days, I will provide a proposal for your project, including time frame and cost.
• Contract. If you want to go ahead, we will sign a contract that will specify all the aspects of our working relationship.
• Interviews. We will conduct a series of digitally recorded interviews in your home. Usually about 10 to 15 hours are required, scheduled in two-hour blocks.
• Transcription. I will transcribe the interviews and provide you copies of them for corrections and/or deletions.
• Writing sample. I will provide you with a two or three page sample of how I propose to transform the transcripts into a manuscript that reads like a book and sounds like you. If you approve the sample, I will begin to write the book as a whole. If you would prefer a different style of writing, we will work together until you are satisfied.
• Writing. I will write your life story.
• Selecting photographs and memorabilia. While I am writing, you will be gathering photographs and other items you wish to include in the book.
• Reviewing the first draft. I will provide you with a complete first draft of the book. This will be the first of two opportunities for you to make corrections and/or deletions in the manuscript.
• Adding photographs and memorabilia. I will place these items in the book. If you wish, I can retouch them.
• Final review. I will provide you with the finished manuscript for a final review.
• Editing. I will have the book reviewed and proofread by a professional editor.
• Printing and binding. I will arrange for printing and binding the books.
• Delivery. I will deliver or arrange for delivery of the books to a destination of your choice.
• Celebration. You will, if you wish, have a book-signing party or another gathering of your choice to celebrate publication of your life story!