It’s time to put pen to paper for National Biographers Day!
Have you ever considered someone writing your life story on your behalf?
That’s how National Biographer’s Day started on 16 May 1763 when James Boswell wrote a biography for the famous English writer, poet, play wright, literary critic, editor and lexicographer, Samuel Johnson.
What’s the difference between a biography and an autobiography, I hear you ask?
A biography is the life history of an individual, written by someone else. An autobiography is the story of a person's life, written by that person.
For inspiration, feedback and support to write your own autobiography, why not join the Thursday night writer’s groups at Watsonia or Mill Park Library. Or join in for inspiration to write someone else’s story!
YPRL has oodles of autobiographies and biographies to explore at each branch.
Here’s some favourites:
Dish by Rhys Nicholson
Award-winning comedian Rhys Nicholson shares their inner most thoughts, questions and views on life, including how hard it is to write a book.
At 30 I realized I had no gender : life lessons from a 50-year-old after two decades of self-discovery by Shou Arai
This autobiographical manga explores Japanese culture surrounding gender, transgender issues, and obstacles faced by gender minorities in the LGBTQIA+ community with comedic flair.
Tupac Shakur : the authorized biography by Staci Robinson
Fans of the American rapper and songwriter, Tupac Shakur (2Pac) may have long awaited his biography following his death in 1996 aged just 25. Inside are photos, poetry, musings and more. It is a political story that begins exploring the Civil Rights Movement and takes you through a young artist's awakening, to rage and purpose in the ninety's era.
Enzo Ferrari : The Definitive Biography of an Icon by Luca Dal Monte
Calling all rev heads, this book will lure you in to the life of Enzo Ferrari and how he became one of the most well-known people in the automobile world.
Across mountains, land & sea by Arman Azadi
When Arman Azadi was a boy, he was forced to flee his village crossing mountains and seas then he arrived in Dover, England clinging to the underside of a truck. Despite a lack of English, he has spent his life assisting other refugees, working with the UN, and advising governments and charities on their policies on displaced children whose lives have been shattered by wars and conflicts.
If you’re inspired to write your own autobiography, these books may help:
Writing true stories : the complete guide to writing autobiography, memoir, personal essay, biography, travel and creative non-fiction by Patti Miller
Award winning non-fiction writer and Australian memoir teacher, Patti Miller, shares writing exercises, examples and readings to help you write your life story in an engaging way.
Write it all down: How to put your life on the page by Cathy Rentzenbrink
This how to guide provides readers with ideas and support on how to write an autobiography, including reflections and exercises. It encourages you to share your story by overcoming obstacles that may be in the way.
The novel project: a step-by-step guide to your novel, memoir or biography by Graeme Simsion
Also available as an eBook (Libby).
New Zealand author, Graeme Simsion, who has sold more than six million copies of his novels shares his tips on the writing process as a whole and this book provides a step-by-step guide to writing the best book, you’re capable of.