How Do I Know if My Story is Worth Telling?

Dear Mr. Higgonbottom:

I’ve always wanted to write a memoir, but my life doesn’t feel “exciting enough” for a book. How do I know if my story is worth telling?

—Quietly Curious in Kalamazoo

Dear Quietly Curious,

Contrary to popular belief, a compelling memoir is not built on outlandish adventures or public milestones, but on honest reflection and resonance. Okay, so maybe you haven’t trekked the Himalayas or survived a shipwreck. Instead, ask yourself:

• Have I endured a major challenge, change, or heartache that is relatable and could inspire others?
• Do my experiences touch on universal themes like resilience, identity, family, grief, or the quiet courage of change?

The most beloved memoirs are more than stories—they are “mirrors and windows” that allow readers to see themselves. They’ll share in your moments that echo their own joys and doubts. In any bookstore, the memoir section is filled with books that explore everyday life—starting anew, dealing with loss, understanding oneself, finding hope amid struggles, and contemplating love, belonging, and personal development.

If you’re feeling the urge to make sense of your journey on the page, go with that impulse. Memoir is not a résumé; it’s a tapestry woven from the memory and meaning in your life. It’s the “why” behind the “what.” The value of your story is not in wild adventures, but in its relatability. It may not be extraordinary, but it is uniquely ordinary.

Write with honesty and vulnerability. Your willingness to reflect and expose your world and your wounds will resonate far beyond any headline-worthy event. Look for those universal themes and lean into them. Write about your messy, beautiful, and perfectly imperfect “ordinary.” That, dear Quietly Curious, is the spark that connects us all.

So, pick up your pen or open your laptop and start writing. The world is waiting for your story—and I, for one, cannot wait to read it.

Sincerely,