I am reading a really good memoir right now by Abi Morgan called This Is Not A Pity Memoir. What I like about it is that it’s not linear, it feels scattered, as someone might think. And it’s emotive and funny and interesting and sad, all in one. I am reading memoirs because I am writing one myself, and am looking for ways to approach it.
I love the story about you and Thurber being born at the same hospital. Also, your mother: how wonderful that she clipped those spots for you! And how sad that she apparently didn't live to see you become a cartoonist--and a successful one! My favorite memoir is Russell Baker's GROWING UP, for which he won a Pulitzer. He had a great sense of humor, and the beginning is inspired. It's full of memorable characters, such as Aunt Sister--which cracks me up to this day--and wonderfully written.
I love the story about you and Thurber being born at the same hospital. Also, your mother: how wonderful that she clipped those spots for you! And how sad that she apparently didn't live to see you become a cartoonist--and a successful one! My favorite memoir is Russell Baker's GROWING UP, for which he won a Pulitzer. He had a great sense of humor, and the beginning is inspired. It's full of memorable characters, such as Aunt Sister--which cracks me up to this day--and wonderfully written.
You already have a different voice going in the sample, sounds great.
Beautiful writing and capturing feelings of childhood and the discovery of a passion. I look forward to reading more.
" I held the book in my hands and felt I was doing what I was supposed to: reading a book."
"Cartoons were mine."
Thank you, Dan!