Kyogle author and writing coach Graeme Gibson is holding in-conversation talks at the Ballina and Goonellabah libraries with Bob Brace as well as a free life writing workshop for people interested in writing a memoir.
‘Everyone has a story to tell and writing a life story is something many people plan on doing – one day. Lacking confidence and knowing how to approach the writing are major hurdles for many. And for some there is self-doubt that their life has been interesting enough,’ said Graeme.
‘There is no need for fame, glory or a particular fate to justify a memoir. An ordinary life, if there is such a thing, has a story to tell – and other lives to enrich.’
Graeme has presented creative, nonfiction life writing workshops for over ten years and after being asked occasionally ‘where’s yours?’, and the answer ‘It’s coming’ started to wear thin, he has now recently published In Life There is Luck: A memoir of an ordinary life with reflections on memoir writing.
‘In Life There is Luck is in part a memoir on memoir writing, designed to inspire others to write their life stories, and through example, make memoir writing readily accessible,’ explains Graeme.
‘Commentary on the craft of memoir writing is integral to the story. Guidance comes from the my experience writing and presenting writing workshops along with the wisdom of a range of literary greats.’
To supplement that commentary on memoir writing, Graeme has also published A Pocket Guide to Memoir Writing.
‘This can either stand alone or act as a companion to the memoir,’ he says.
Previews of both books are available at www.morethanjusttalk.com.au.
Author talks and workshop
The In-conversation style author talks will take place at Ballina and Goonellabah. They are free but bookings are requested:
Ballina on Monday, 15 May from 10am. Book on: 6686 2831
Goonellabah on Thursday, 25 May from 11 am. Book on: 6625 1235
Byron Bay on Thursday, 3 August from 10am. Book on: 6685 8540
The free writing workshop will take place at Goonellabah on 25 May from 1-4pm. Numbers are limited and bookings are required.