Writing Your Life

May 15, 2013

In this updated edition of her 1998 how-to, Borg continues her more than 20-year mission to introduce senior citizens to the joys of writing their personal histories. The book, which was developed from class materials early in her workshop career, walks readers through the practical elements of writing a life story. No longer a spiral-bound offering with blank sheets, this edition can stand up to library circulation. Borg relies heavily on question prompts and writing samples from former students to guide the reader in creating a mostly chronological written-memory journey. Reading suggestions and writing tips are sprinkled throughout, and recommendations for using digital technology and employing online materials as writing aids are also included. Borg's style is informal; she focuses heavily on generating the memories to be recorded. An appendix lists key historical events and keywords by decade for the 1920s through 2010s to assist writers in setting their autobiographies in historical context. VERDICT This title is ideal for those who want some basic help in getting their life story on paper, whether simply for the benefit of friends and family or for a broader public.--Stacey Rae Brownlie, Harrisburg Area Community Coll. Lib., Lancaster, PA

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