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1. Just as I Am 🌟by Cicely Tyson 

"A timeless memoir from the legendary actress Cicely Tyson, who graced the stage and screen for six decades. Tyson shares her life story in its purest form—from her humble beginnings as a church girl to becoming a cultural icon and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.  A deeply personal and inspiring story."

- Recommended by Erin, Senior Sales Executive 

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2. All That Glitters 💰by Orlando Whitfield 

"An enthralling story of ambition, betrayal, and the largest art fraud in modern history. Orlando Whitfield's sharp memoir recounts his friendship with Inigo Philbrick, a rising star in the art world whose audacious schemes shocked collectors and investors. Shortlisted for the 2024 Nero Book Awards."
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- Recommended by Jon, Global Publishing Manager 
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3. Crying in H Mart🍚by Michelle Zauner 

"Through heartfelt prose, Zauner reflects on growing up Korean American, her complicated relationship with her late mother, and how food became a bridge to her heritage. A poignant exploration of love, grief, and self-discovery that resonates with millennials and beyond."
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- Recommended by Xiaofang, Senior Project Editor
Discover It

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4. The Woman in Me💃by Britney Spears 

"In this powerful and candid memoir, global pop icon Britney Spears shares her story of fame, survival, and reclaiming her voice. From the pressures of stardom to the struggles of conservatorship, Spears gives readers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at her journey toward freedom. A must-read for Gen X."
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- Recommended by Erin, Senior Sales Executive
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5. Knife ⚔️by Salman Rushdie 

"Salman Rushdie recounts the harrowing events of his 2022 stabbing attack and the road to recovery in this powerful memoir. Knife offers an unflinching meditation on survival, love, art, and the indomitable human spirit."
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- Recommended by Jon, Global Publishing Manager 
Read Rushdie's Story

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6. Just Kids👨🎨by Patti Smith 

"A National Book Award-winning memoir about art, love, and friendship, Just Kids is Patti Smith's poetic tribute to her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and their coming-of-age in 1970s New York City."
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- Recommended by Tilly, Project Editor
Dive In

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7. Top Service 🍤📖 by Silvano Giraldin

"From a humble farm in Padua to setting the gold standard in London’s fine dining scene, Silvano Giraldin shares his extraordinary journey and the art of exceptional service. A must-read for food lovers and hospitality enthusiasts."
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- Recommended by Hariny, Project Editor of Top Service (a StoryTerrace book)
Discover It
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BONUS BOOK RECOMMENDATION

The Fundamental Investor 📊by Jeremy Dyer

"In this StoryTerrace PRO book, Jeremy Dyer shares his decades of real estate investing experience to simplify complex financial concepts, making this an essential guide for aspiring and experienced investors alike. If you're aiming to build passive income through real estate, this book is for you."
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- Recommended by Rutger, Founder & CEO, StoryTerrace
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Start Reading Your Next Favorite Story 📚

Explore these books and find the perfect holiday companion or gift —a story that will warm your heart, challenge your perspective, or take you on a journey through resilience, creativity, and the human spirit.

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Whether you’re curled up by the fireplace, savoring a quiet moment with a cup of tea, or looking for a thoughtful gift, these biographies are sure to leave a lasting impression this season.

Ready to bring your story to life?
Discover StoryTerrace packages and let our expert team guide you through every step of creating a timeless, beautifully crafted book that’s uniquely yours. 📖✨ Start your Journey Now - Click here

Has it been your dream to write a book or tell a story? It can be a reality all too soon. Today, we will tell you how to publish a book on Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform. Self-publishing a book has never been this easy. From manuscript to published book, Amazon’s KDP supports you in reaching a global audience. You can skip the complex and overwhelming process of traditional publishing. If you are unsure where to start, this guide will walk you through and give you plenty of self-publishing tips for authors.

Self-publish vs Traditional publish

Before we delve into the important question of how to publish with Amazon, a self-publishing option, let’s look at the alternative: traditional publishing. Imagine this: you have a written manuscript ready for publishing. You find a literary agent or approach the publisher directly. They take a look at your manuscript and immediately make an offer. A book editor is assigned while the PR and marketing team gets busy with launching the book. Your book is a roaring success; you make plenty of money from royalties. Though that would be the ideal scenario, it rarely happens, so we cannot stress much about the rare bit.

Literary agents and publishers are busy. They receive thousands of manuscripts, which can sometimes take them years to read. Your manuscript can get lost in the pile as you wait to hear back from them. Even if your book gets picked up by a big or small press, the hurdles are far from over. Traditional publishers keep their share in the royalty margin relatively high. You may lose your voice in marketing and launching your book as the publishers take over.

If you are not ready to face this uncertainty, you can take control with self-publishing. If you wish to publish your book online or even have it as a paperback, self-publishing gives you complete control. You can choose who publishes your book and when. Even though you can do the marketing and promotion of your book all by yourself, you still have the option of getting all the help you may need. If you choose Amazon KDP as your self-publishing partner, you can publish your book in as little as 24 to 72 hours.

Pros and cons of self-publishing on Amazon

Many authors are choosing KDP over traditional publishing. Kindle Direct Publishing has become very popular with authors. This growing popularity is attributed to several factors. Authors prefer to self-publish a book on Amazon because KDP is user-friendly. Enough resources and help are available to navigate the system, making it an easy choice. Self-publishing is a costly way of publishing your book. However, you can publish your book on Amazon for free. Irrespective of your financial condition, you can be a published author. You will also have the option of having only eBooks or paperback and eBooks. Thus, you get more flexibility in the type of book you want to create.

Unfortunately, Amazon’s KDP might not be the best option for all types of authors. Self-publishing on Amazon has some drawbacks. Many new authors do not want to wait for the 60-day payment window for their royalties.

Writing and publishing a book is not enough for it to sell. You will need help to let people know about your book. Amazon does not offer any built-in marketing support. Your book can only be reviewed by paid customers, so fewer people will review it, which may affect its popularity. If you publish an eBook with Amazon, the same book cannot be published on any other platform. This exclusivity can negatively impact book sales.

Nothing is perfect. True self-publishing with Amazon has its challenges, but there are many ways to overcome them. There are many services that can help you use Amazon for publishing and help you make the most out of it in your self-publishing journey.

Preparing the manuscript

The first and most important step to publishing is, of course, writing the story. After the draft is ready, it is crucial that you carefully read it. For additional support, you can hire a proofreader or an editor. Please be mindful of fonts, margins, and other such details when formatting. EPUB or MOBI make formatting easier. Other software to consider is Scrivener, Vellum, or Reedsy Book Editor. Books are mostly judged by their covers; hence, a clever design will positively impact buying decisions. Use design tools like Canva and Adobe or hire a specialist through Fiverr or Upwork.

After all the writing, editing, and cover design planning, get some feedback on your manuscript. Ask a friend or a family member, someone whom you trust, to give their honest opinion about your book. As a writer, you may fail to see certain shortcomings, but a reader will always find them. Reading your book will give you a clear idea of how it will be received. Implement the suggestions and see how you can improve the writing.

Setting Up and uploading your KDP Account

After all of the changes, your story is ready to be a published book. If you already have an Amazon account, you can use it to set up KDP. If you are new to Amazon, you can set up your account directly by clicking on KDP sign-up. You will need to fill out author, tax and payment-related information. Uploading a book is quite easy on Amazon KDP. You can watch Amazon KDP tutorials for an Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) guide if you struggle to upload.

Pricing and Royalties

You must be feeling the book writing process was easier than the next steps. They may not be very writer-friendly, but KDP does make it simple. Self-publishing on Amazon also involves setting the prices for your work. Considering certain factors when fixing your price may be a good idea. There are 35% or 70% options for royalties. Amazon has some rules for the latter one. You must give exclusive sales rights, and Amazon will set the price. If you have a print book, you can not set a price that does not meet your printing cost! Considering that and other factors like ink type, trim size, page count, and the marketplace for sale, KDP gives you a price. Use the KDP Printing cost and Royalty calculator to see the best price. In some marketplaces, an additional Value-Added Tax is required when setting a minimum price.

When setting a price, consider how your competitors are pricing. Do not be tempted to set a lower price, as books with lower pricing are often viewed as of lower value. If you hand over Amazon to sell your eBook exclusively, you may miss out on opportunities to reach a broader market. If you are unsure how to reach a greater audience, KDP Select can be a great option, as Amazon will recommend your books to potential buyers.

There are so many successful authors on KDP who have made significant profits. Jeff Carson, author of the best-selling David Wolf series, said, “I was able to quit my side job after publishing five books, and I continue to make a living by writing alone. I am frequently making best-seller lists with my main series, and each new book has done better than the last one.”

Did you know that self-published authors on Amazon make between $150 and $20,000 per month? Books published in series make the most for the authors as it works best.

Publishing and Book Launch

The wheels are set in motion. Your dream of becoming a published author is going to be a reality. Do not forget to preview your book using KDP’s preview tool. It gives you a glimpse of what the readers will receive when they purchase the book. Make a final check that all the requirements have been met. Once you hit the publish button, get ready for a launching strategy.

If you have an audience, you can contact them through a mailing list. You can share a few free copies and request reviews. Many authors choose a special day to commemorate their book launch. It can be an excellent opportunity to create excitement about the book. You can even throw a launch party for your friends and family. There are many ways to market your book effectively. The best way depends on you and your book.

The best thing about self-publishing with KDP is that Amazon offers specific promotion tools, like the KDP countdown tool. There are many resources on Amazon to help you promote your book. Leverage your social media presence to attract more buyers. Share about your experience and motivation for writing the book. If you already have a website, create space for an author bio. Talk about exciting details about the book. Engage with your readers and encourage them to share their reviews on social media.

Do you have a favourite book blogger or YouTuber? Why not reach out to them? Many influencers are willing to promote new talent. If your chosen influencer has many followers, your book can go viral. It is best to choose someone who is interested in your book genre. They should be genuinely interested in your book. There is nothing like an authentic presentation for organic growth. Discuss with the influencer how you can mutually benefit each other for a long collaboration. 

Look at other books in your genre. What is working for them? How can you incorporate that in your strategy? Asking many questions and taking notes will help you create a practical roadmap.

You can set up your Amazon Ads account through KDP. Your books can now be found in sponsored products. When someone searches for a book with your keywords, the product suggests your book as a similar product. This increases visibility and creates awareness about the book, often resulting in sales.

Post-Publication Management

After the book is published and ready for sale, you can still do many things to ensure it reaches as many readers as possible. Register for Amazon Look Inside. This allows potential buyers to peek through your book. This is a wonderful feature to give someone who is already curious more reasons to read your book. However, there is a downside. You can not choose the pages they see. Maybe they will find the best bits and decide against buying your book. But still it is a great feature as it encourages potential readers to click on your book to know more. If a buyer were to find your book on a shelf at a store, you would also have no control over which page they flip through. This virtual version is the same and serves similar purposes.

You can see all your books and author information on Amazon Central Page. It helps you create your own brand. Keep your information updated. Readers always appreciate an authentic author who has value to offer. You can also add an editorial review, which boosts the appeal. You can monitor your sales by tracking real-time data. You will have a clear understanding of which book promotion strategy is working and which one is not. You can alter your plan accordingly. Ask your readers to leave you reviews. The best practice is to ask people who have already read your other books.

Like social media, regular updates work wonders for even your books on KDP. You can tweak your biography, update information about the book, share pictures from events, and engage with your fans. It will help the book stay relevant. In short, keep the curiosity afresh.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

As a self-published author, your work is not done even after publishing your book. You must monitor the sales and take the necessary steps to boost the book’s performance.

Low sale is a very common problem. You must change your book promotion strategy and examine what works and what doesn’t. Another obstacle can be receiving negative reviews, it can be heart-breaking. If the reviewer is misinformed, report it. If you receive a valid criticism, work on it. You can always learn from your mistakes and republish your book. If you believe in your work, it is best to ignore the bad ones and focus on the good ones.

After some time, you may find it harder to find your book with the original keywords. Keep updating and choosing the categories that best describe your book to garner attention.

If you face issues logging in or monitoring your author page, contact the KDP help centre. They also provide community support, giving you a forum where other authors discuss and share insights.

Amazon takes its content guidelines quite seriously. If they find any infringement, they will reject or remove your content. Your book should not violate any copyrights or trademarks. Amazon wants to know if the content is AI-generated or AI-assisted. You cannot publish any offensive content. Poor customer experience will negatively impact your book, and you must address the concern immediately. If your content deals with the public domain, abide by Amazon’s policy. Remember to stick to the rules so that your book does not face any consequences.

Self-publishing at StoryTerrace

Self-publishing is no easy feat, especially for the first-timers. Having published with Amazon, I can still see you struggling with marketing. No matter your situation, StoryTerrace's self-publishing packages can help. Our step-by-step guide lets you sell your book and create your desired impact. Our experts know how to optimise your book for online readers. From help managing your author dashboard to collecting royalties, you will find the support you need. The best thing is that you can do it all for your next book once you learn these skills from us.

For book promotion, you can avail yourself of our coaching services that give you an in-depth look at your book genre. You can expect to learn how to leverage reviews and other strategies that help you with successful book promotion. Our packages allow you to make your books available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple. We even offer ghostwriting services to help you polish your manuscript to its highest potential.

We offer three publishing packages:

Amazon Essential—This is for authors who want to sell on Amazon only and do not want too much marketing attention.

Amazon Plus—You can sell your book on Amazon and use our various techniques to gain the right exposure and increase your profit.

Multi-channel Distribution & Marketing—As the name suggests, our experts can help you sell across different platforms and support you with targeted book review mailing lists.

Contact us today to kickstart your journey into making your book a story to remember.

Perhaps you’ve got a great idea for a book, or maybe you’re in the processing of writing one. During this process, the question of “How do you self publish a book?” can naturally arise as you try to decide how to deliver your book to audiences of choice. To help, here are three easy steps to self publish a book.

Step One: Finishing Your Manuscript—Writing and Editing

The first of the steps to self publish a book is actually writing the book—whether that means writing it yourself or hiring a ghostwriter. Although no two people will ever write a book in the exact same way, here are typical steps taken when writing one:

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Determine the type of book you’re writing: At a high level, you might choose to write a non-fiction book, a novel, or a creative non-fiction book like a memoir. Each type will come with its own unique steps and requirements, so it's important to be clear about the broad genre of your particular book.

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Right-size your book topic: You’ll need to narrow your topic down to a manageable size. So, if you know that you want to write a non-fiction book about dogs, you’ll have to choose a scope that’s book-sized. You might, for example, decide that your true passion is to write about exercising with your dogs for optimal health: Yours and theirs.

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Decide your target audience(s): Who would be interested in your book? In the dog example, it could be adults with an interest in fitness and/or weight loss who also love dogs. Note: It can be tempting to want to write a book that absolutely everyone will be interested in, but that isn’t realistic—even for bestselling authors. Instead, put your focus on writing the best book possible for your specific audience. 

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Craft an outline or otherwise structure your book: You may decide to use traditional outlines like those taught in schools or create your own format—perhaps by jotting down notes on what you want each chapter to cover. Writers often self-identify as either plotters (people who carefully design a structure for what they’ll write) or pantsers (people who write by the seat of their pants!). You may identify with one or the other or find yourself somewhere in between. 

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Create a workable writing schedule: Consider what works for you based upon your career, family commitments, and other issues that matter to you like volunteering. Based on that information, carve out a timetable for writing, and do your best to stick to the schedule. If you find that your original writing schedule isn’t working—perhaps being too aggressive or not aggressive enough—tweak it to create an optimal schedule for your specific needs. 

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Write your first draft: In this draft, you’ll want to get the story down: With care but without allowing the desire for perfection to stop you from completing the draft. Focus on excellence rather than perfection, knowing that, in the next two steps, you can further improve your manuscript.

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Revise the manuscript: You may go through a few rounds of revision as you verify facts; make sure that important information isn’t missing; get rid of unnecessary duplicate information; and ensure that you’re sharing your stories in the most compelling, engaging manner. 

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Have someone edit the manuscript: It’s always good to have an experienced editor read through your manuscript. Even longstanding professional writers go through this step to ensure that the manuscript is in the best shape possible before publishing. That’s because the editor’s fresh set of eyes can catch typos, misplaced punctuation marks, and inconsistent details.

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When you’re self publishing a book, this is often the first step where you invest money into your book project: Paying a qualified editor who ideally respects your voice and shapes the manuscript in ways that mesh with your vision.

Step Two: Getting Your Manuscript Ready for Publishing

Here’s the second of the steps to self publish a book: Getting the completed, edited manuscript ready for publication. 

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Key elements include:

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• Book formatting for eBooks or print, depending upon what you want to do
• Selecting pictures, if relevant, making sure they are of sufficient quality and ensuring that you have the right to use them
• Designing an eye-catching book cover
• Securing your ISBN and barcode

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Book Formatting

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First, book formatting is different from manuscript formatting. When you format a manuscript, you’re ensuring that the margins, spacing, font, and so forth are in a form desired by an editor or publisher. Book formatting, meanwhile, means getting the text into a form that readers will see. 

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Here, we’ll focus on tips for print (rather than eBook) formatting. First, decide the trim size of your book—meaning its final dimensions. You’ll need to select one that’s available from the printer you’ll use. Next, choose a font that’s easily readable, leaning towards ones used by traditional publishers. If you’re writing a book with an older demographic for an audience, keep potential vision issues in mind.

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Create wide enough margins so that there’s enough white space for readability. When doing so, consider the gutter size, which is the margin space on the parts of the pages closest to the binding. You’ll need enough space there for the bookbinding to take place and to ensure that the text isn’t too cramped in that margin. Formatting software exists for a relatively small cost, or you could hire a professional formatter.

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Be sure to include a copyright page to let people know that your book isn’t in the public domain. In other words, let them know that you own the intellectual property to discourage plagiarism. At a minimum, include this information: © Date Your Name. All rights reserved.

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Selecting Pictures

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Whether this means photos or charts, diagrams, or other visual elements, having them interspersed in your book can make it more attractive and appealing. However, you’ll need to consider a few things.

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First, choose between colour or black & white. Visual elements in colour can be especially eye-catching but come with a greater printing cost. When doing so, consider the DPI. For the pictures to look attractive in a book, you’ll need ones with a certain number of dots per inch (DPIs). At a minimum, go with 300dpi. Also, make sure you have appropriate permissions. Typically, the person who takes a photo owns the copyright, and that’s the only person who can give you permission to use a picture in your book. In other words, just because someone has a physical copy or scan of a photo, this does not mean they can give you permission to publish it.

Designing a Book Cover

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Despite the saying that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, people often do. So, you’ll want to have an engaging one that attracts readers. Decisions you’ll need to make include these:

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Title and, if applicable, the subtitle: If you want to use a catchy title that inspires curiosity, you could use a subtitle that provides more information about the genre and what a reader might expect when buying your book—giving them a sneak preview.

‍Name or pseudonym: Will you publish under your real name? A pen name?

‍Font size and type: Just like with your text, you’ll need to choose font sizes and types for your cover.

‍Images: Will you feature a picture on the cover? A collage of images? An abstract design?

‍Tone: Create a cover design that dovetails with your book. What you’d choose for a family history book would be quite different from a science fiction story.

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Don’t forget the back cover! This is where you can include a promotional blurb about your book, which could include snippets of a review and your author bio.

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Securing Your ISBN and Barcode

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When self publishing a book, you’ll typically want to get an ISBN (an International Standard Book Number) so that you can potentially sell your book to libraries and in bookstores and online retailers. If you only plan to sell your books directly, perhaps from your own website and/or through events like craft shows, then you don’t need one. 

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The same is true with barcodes. If you plan to try to sell your book in stores and the like, then get a barcode. You can get both of these items at Bowkers Publishing Services. 

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Step Three: Going Through the Publishing Process

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So, returning to the original question—how do you self publish a book?—two broad pathways exist. You can literally do all of these steps yourself to self publish a book, hiring an expert when something is beyond your skills set or knowledge (or to save time). Or, you can hire a publishing partner like StoryTerrace. 

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Let’s first run through the process if you did everything yourself. You’d either write the book yourself or hire a ghostwriter. Then, find a qualified book editor, hiring them and paying them their fee. Format the book appropriately or hire someone else to do so. Collect photos and ensure that you have permission to use them and that they’re of appropriate quality. 

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 Design a cover or hire someone to do that. Finally, get your ISBN and barcode.

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Once all is completed, you’d then find a printer that specializes in printing books or a company that will print them on demand. With the second option, when you get orders for your book, the company would print what’s needed. Then, it’s time to market the book, asking bookstores, libraries, and the like to carry your book. You could schedule a book party, set up and promote book signings, and otherwise get your completed book out into the world.

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If this sounds like it can be a lot of work to take on yourself, it can be. Some people thrive on doing everything themselves while others might wonder if this is the best way to self publish a book. For that second group, they may prefer working with a partner. If you’re wondering “How can I self publish a book with StoryTerrace?", Contact us!

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When you contact us to talk about your book idea, we’ll discuss how to self publish a book with our company so that you have a good understanding of our processes. Alternatively, you can also have a look at our publishing packages here.

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Once you’ve decided what package makes sense for you, we’ll match you with the best writer in our extensive network of 600+ ghostwriters. Throughout the process, you stay in full control while outsourcing the tasks to us. Our talented designers will format the book and create an eye-catching cover. And, throughout the process of self publishing a book, you can count on our Bookmaker technology to keep you fully informed.

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Then, when everything is complete, we’ll deliver your hardbound, full-colour books directly to you.

Partnering With StoryTerrace to Self Publish a Book

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Let StoryTerrace streamline the process for an amazing product that connects with your vision for your unique book. Ready to get started? Book a call with us!

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Memoir as a genre is expansive, continually pushing the boundaries of personal narrative. To fully appreciate the modern memoir and its place in contemporary literature, it is essential to understand its origins and how it has transformed over time. This article, the first in a series investigating the memoir genre, will explore the history of ghostwriting, how it informs the work of modern-day ghostwriters and how we expect the field of ghostwriting to change in the future.

With the increasing popularity of celebrity memoirs, ghostwriting has naturally gained more attention. Readers often wonder whether their favourite celebrities actually sat down to write their life stories or if they employed someone else to transform their experiences into an engaging narrative. Regardless of one's personal stance on the ethics of ghostwriting, it has become an increasingly prominent practice in various forms of written media.

The practice of ghostwriting dates back to the Song Dynasty in China (960-1279 AD). Historians have detailed the role of scribes within the imperial court, known as the daibi, who were predominantly women. Unlike modern ghostwriters, the daibi focused on transcribing court events and meetings as well as composing texts about the emperor. These scribes were given unprecedented access to the inner workings of the court and empire. Calligraphers were even expected to mimic the emperor's handwriting as closely as possible, setting a precedent for the modern ghostwriter's task of capturing an author's voice.

Although the work of the daibi differs from modern memoir ghostwriting in many ways, it laid the groundwork for the dynamic between ghostwriters and their subjects today. At the core of this relationship is trust. Ghostwriting demands almost exclusive access to a subject's life, experiences, and secrets. Whether documenting the lives of ancient Chinese emperors or contemporary figures like Prince Harry, ghostwriters are expected to handle sensitive information with discretion and care.

The importance of trust in the ghostwriting process cannot be overstated. Without it, the relationship between the subject and the writer falls apart. Just as emperors couldn't divulge state secrets to untrustworthy scribes, modern public figures must feel confident in their ghostwriters' ability to maintain confidentiality and accurately represent their stories.

While the foundation of trust remains crucial, the nature of the relationship between ghostwriters and their subjects has evolved significantly since the days of the daibi. Modern ghostwriting collaborations often involve a more personal connection between the writer and the subject. For example, tennis star Andre Agassi chose to collaborate with J.R. Moehringer on his memoir after reading Moehringer's own memoir, "The Tender Bar." Moehringer, in turn, only agreed to work on Agassi's book after connecting with him and his story on a personal level.

This mutual understanding and connection paints a different picture from the accounts of the Song Dynasty. Today, the trust in ghostwriting is a two-way street. The deeply personal nature of memoirs requires not only that the subject trusts the writer with their story but also that the writer feels a genuine connection to the subject and their experiences.

One aspect of ghostwriting that has remained constant throughout history is the importance of capturing the subject's voice.

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Just as the emperor's calligraphers were expected to mimic his style, modern ghostwriters must be able to write in a way that authentically represents their subject's manner of speaking and thinking.

This skill is crucial because readers are primarily interested in gaining insight into the memoirist’s life, experiences, and beliefs. When reading a memoir, readers expect to hear the subject's voice, not the ghostwriter's. The ability to capture and convey this voice separates skilled ghostwriters from mere transcribers or editors.

The process of capturing a subject's voice involves extensive interviews, research, and immersion in the subject's world. Ghostwriters often spend considerable time with their subjects, observing their mannerisms, speech patterns, and thought processes. This intimate knowledge allows them to create a narrative that feels authentic and true to the subject's personality.

Another parallel between ancient and modern ghostwriting practices is that it has largely remained a luxury reserved for the rich and powerful. It is generally accepted that CEOs and celebrities may not have the literary talents of professional authors and may need assistance in refining their work to tell their stories effectively. However, this service remains largely inaccessible to those without significant financial resources or public profiles.

This exclusivity raises questions about the ethics of ghostwriting and who gets to tell their stories. While there is a general acceptance of the practice for public figures who may not have the time or skill to write a book themselves, the inaccessibility of professional ghostwriting services to the general public remains a point of contention.

The debate surrounding ghostwriting extends beyond issues of accessibility. Some argue that the practice is inherently deceptive, as it presents a work as authored by someone who may have had minimal involvement in the actual writing process. Others contend that ghostwriting is a legitimate form of collaboration, similar to the relationship between a sculptor and their subject.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards acknowledging ghostwriters more openly. Some books now credit the ghostwriter as a co-author or mention their contribution in the acknowledgements. This shift towards transparency may help address some of the ethical concerns surrounding the practice.

The confessional aspect of memoirs is often seen as what makes the writing process so cathartic and healing. The genre is deeply rooted in self-expression and is one of the few forms of literature that allow authors to speak directly to their readers. Memoirs that focus on personal struggles and narratives that readers can relate to tend to be the most commercially successful, evidenced by the enduring popularity of works like Frank McCourt's "Angela's Ashes" in the 1990s and Maya Angelou's "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," which dominated bestseller lists for decades.

Despite the potential for first-time authors to write bestselling memoirs, publishers remain hesitant to accept memoirs from unknown writers. This reluctance creates a barrier for individuals with compelling stories who lack established platforms or the means to hire ghostwriters. As a result, many important narratives may go untold and unheard.

Understanding the history of the daibi is essential to comprehending the importance of ghostwriters and their relationships with authors. However, it also highlights areas where the practice can evolve further. Starting with the daibi working for emperors, ghostwriting is increasingly seen as a collaboration rather than a service provided by an invisible hand.

In recent years, there has been a trend towards acknowledging ghostwriters more openly, with some sharing the title of author with the subject of the memoirs. This shift represents a more transparent approach to the creation of memoirs and acknowledges the significant contribution of the ghostwriter to the final product.

While ghostwriting has traditionally been a service available only to the elite, there is a growing recognition of the need to make this service more accessible to those with important stories to tell but without the means to do so. Figures like Malala Yousafzai and Roxane Gay are paving the way for this change by using their platforms to amplify the voices of others.

Malala Yousafzai's "We Are Displaced" demonstrates the power of memoirs to give a voice to oppressed people who are suffering and do not have the means to tell their stories. This approach aligns with the historical use of memoirs to amplify the voices of the marginalised and share narratives that might otherwise go unheard.

As we look to the future of ghostwriting and memoirs, several trends and possibilities emerge that could reshape the landscape of personal narrative. The increasing popularity of digital publishing platforms and self-publishing tools has made it easier for individuals to share their stories without the need for traditional publishing houses, lowering the barrier to entry for aspiring memoirists. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence may see the emergence of AI tools that can assist in the writing process. While these tools are unlikely to replace human ghostwriters entirely, they could make the process more accessible and affordable for a wider range of people. What’s more, the rise of ghostwriting companies has greatly democratised the process of life writing. With access to large pools of freelance writers, companies such as StoryTerrace can pair customers of modest means with a writer specially suited to tell their story, making them instrumental in the further democratisation of memoir as a genre.

As technology continues to advance, it's reshaping the landscape of memoir writing and ghostwriting in a myriad of ways. Digital platforms allow for the integration of multimedia elements such as photos, videos, and audio recordings, creating more immersive and interactive memoir experiences. Meanwhile, platforms like Instagram and Twitter have given rise to micro-memoirs, where individuals share their life stories in real-time through posts and stories. This has blurred the lines between traditional memoirs and everyday social media use.

Alongside these exciting advancements come ethical considerations which are important to consider as the genre expands. For instance, there is an ongoing debate about how much involvement a ghostwriter should have and how this involvement should be acknowledged. While some argue for full disclosure, with ghostwriters being credited as co-authors, others believe that maintaining the illusion of sole authorship is important for the reader's experience. What’s more, ghostwriters must navigate the delicate balance between capturing the subject’s voice and experiences accurately while also crafting a compelling narrative. This raises questions about how much creative license is acceptable and how to ensure the final product remains true to the subject’s experiences and perspective when writing their life story. Concerning the voice, there’s also a growing need for cultural sensitivity as ghostwriters increasingly work on memoirs that cross cultural boundaries. Ghostwriters must be aware of their own biases and work to accurately represent experiences and perspectives that may be different from their own.

As ghostwriting becomes more accessible and diverse voices are amplified through memoirs, these personal narratives have the potential to play an increasingly important role in social change. Memoirs can bring attention to social issues and injustices by personalising them through individual stories. This can be particularly powerful when the memoirist comes from a marginalised or underrepresented group. By sharing nuanced, personal experiences, memoirs can break down stereotypes and promote understanding across different communities and cultures. Powerful memoirs can motivate readers to take action on social issues through political engagement, charitable giving, or personal behaviour changes. By allowing readers to step into the shoes of others, memoirs can foster empathy and understanding and lead to more compassionate societies.

The evolution of memoir writing and ghostwriting from the days of the daibi to the present day reflects broader changes in society, technology, and our understanding of personal narrative. As we move forward, the democratisation of memoir writing through new technologies and collaborative approaches holds the promise of amplifying a diverse range of voices and experiences.

However, this evolution also brings new challenges. Ensuring ethical practices, maintaining authenticity, and navigating the complex interplay between personal narrative and public consumption will be ongoing concerns for ghostwriters, memoirists, and publishers alike.

Ultimately, the power of memoirs lies in their ability to connect us through shared human experiences, to challenge our perspectives and give a voice to stories that might otherwise go untold. As ghostwriting continues to evolve, it will play a crucial role in expanding the reach and impact of these important narratives.

The future of memoir and ghostwriting will be characterised by greater accessibility, increased diversity of voices, and innovative approaches to storytelling. By embracing these changes while remaining true to the core principles of trust, authenticity, and powerful narrative, the memoir genre can continue to evolve and maintain its significant place in literature and society.

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26th March 2024 - Exploring this year’s London Book Fair (12-14th March 2024) was like delving into a bustling literary hub, where insights flowed as freely as the networking. Over the span of three days, I made two key observations that are reshaping the book publishing landscape.

Firstly, the surge of interest in self-publishing is impossible to ignore. Authors, whether seasoned professionals or newcomers, are increasingly drawn to this avenue for its promise of control and direct reader engagement. It's not merely about putting pen to paper anymore; it's about crafting an author brand and connecting with one’s audience. Seminars I attended at the show underscored the importance of savvy marketing and inventive promotions for self-published authors.

Social media has emerged as a vital tool for engagement, albeit with its own demands for consistent content creation. Over the past couple of years, BookTok and Bookstagram have emerged as leading platforms for authors to connect with readers, build new followers, and ultimately tout their books. Success on these platforms, however, doesn’t come overnight. The time and effort authors need to put into creating their online brand requires almost as much dedication and organization as writing their books. But despite the challenges, the allure of independence and the chance to innovate in reaching readers while having total control over how one’s book is edited, packaged, and marketed, are driving more authors towards self-publishing than ever before.

Secondly, the buzz surrounding generative AI cannot be ignored. Despite initial reservations, it's clear that this technology is increasingly being integrated into the content creation process. The Alliance for Independent Authors maintains an open-minded stance, recognizing the potential of AI as a creative aid. However, ethical considerations loom large, and require ongoing scrutiny and adherence to guidelines, especially in regards to copyright infringement.

Unsurprisingly perhaps, not all corners of the literary world share this optimism. At one panel sponsored by the London Book Fair itself, attitudes towards generative AI and the “tech bros” who created it were notably skeptical, contrasting with the more cautiously optimistic prevailing sentiment elsewhere. Such resistance is viewed by some as “toxic” to those writers who embrace technological advancements in their craft.

The tension between tradition and innovation echoed throughout the fair. It's a balancing act between the established norms and emerging possibilities, each vying for prominence in a continuously shifting landscape. Self-publishing represents a quest for autonomy and creative freedom, a challenge to the long-established status quo. Generative AI, meanwhile, offers a glimpse into the future of how authors, book marketers and designers can blend creativity with technology. Yet, amidst the debates and discussions, one thing remains clear: an open mind and adaptability are key.

The future of publishing is being shaped not only by the pen and keyboard, but also by pixels and algorithms. Whether we embrace change or cling to tradition, one thing is certain: the journey ahead promises both challenges and opportunities for writers and publishers alike. As the cliché goes, in this ever-evolving industry, the only constant is change.

Jon Malysiak is the Global Publishing Manager at StoryTerrace.

Hoeveel weten we daadwerkelijk over het leven van onze ouders?

Wij gaan er allemaal van uit dat wij meer dan genoeg weten over de mensen die ons hebben opgevoed, maar denk alleen al eens aan alles wat je in je eigen kinder- en tienerjaren hebt meegemaakt. Je hebt waarschijnlijk honderden verhalen te vertellen.

Maar zou je ook honderden verhalen kunnen vertellen over het leven van je ouders van voordat jij geboren werd? Net als jij beleefden zij veel ups en downs en maakten bovendien een interessant stuk geschiedenis mee. Ben je voldoende op de hoogte van alle details om hun verhalen aan jouw kinderen en kleinkinderen door te geven?

Ga op zoek naar antwoorden voordat het te laat is

In een recent artikel in de Wall Street Journal betreurt Sarah Smith het dat zij haar moeder niet naar haar jeugd gevraagd heeft voordat haar geheugen haar in de steek liet als gevolg van de ziekte van Alzheimer. Dankzij onder andere sociale media wordt er van de huidige generaties veel meer vastgelegd dan van de generaties daarvoor. Net als Sarah Smith komen veel mensen te laat tot het pijnlijke besef dat er geen enkel verslag is van de hoop en de dromen van hun ouders of grootouders.

“Ik denk dat jonge mensen het moeilijk vinden om hun ouders en grootouders te begrijpen. Zij hebben immers hun levens niet vastgelegd om de manier waarop deze jongen mensen dat nu zelf wel doen via bijvoorbeeld sociale media”, aldus Rutger Bruining, CEO van StoryTerrace.

StoryTerrace heeft onderzoek gedaan naar hoeveel mensen over hun ouders weten, en we ontdekten iets schokkends: 45% van de mensen zegt meer over het leven van hun ouders te weten te zijn gekomen door het vinden van familiebezittingen, het toevallig opvangen van gesprekken, of door met andere familieleden te spreken, dan rechtstreeks van hun ouders zelf.

Daar komt nog bij dat 35% van de ondervraagden aangaven dat zij de prestaties van hun ouders bewonderen, maar niet weten hoe zij bereikt hebben wat ze hebben bereikt. En nog eens 21% zei dat zij niets van hun vader en moeder weten van vóór zijzelf geboren werden.

11 vragen die je nu aan je ouders kunt stellen

Als wij iets geleerd hebben van de pandemie, dan is het wel dat je nooit weet wat morgen zal brengen. Daarom geloven wij dat het belangrijk is betekenisvolle gesprekken met dierbaren te voeren terwijl het nog kan.

Om je op weg te helpen hebben wij een lijst met vragen samengesteld die je vandaag aan je ouders kunt stellen. Gebruik ze om een gesprek te beginnen en de mensen die je hebben opgevoed beter te leren kennen. Bereid je voor op opmerkelijke verrassingen!

1. Wat wilde je worden toen je klein was?
2. Wie was je beste vriend? Waar is hij/zij nu?
3. Wat was het meest rebelse dat je ooit als tiener of jongvolwassene gedaan hebt?
4. Denk je dat je het juiste carrièrepad gekozen hebt? Heb je ergens spijt van?
5. Hoe heb je de liefde van je leven ontmoet en wanneer wist je dat hij/zij de ware voor je was?
6. Wat voor ouder dacht je dat je zou zijn, en hoe verhoudt zich dat tot de ouder die je in werkelijkheid was?
7. Wat vond je het moeilijkste aspect van het opvoeden van kinderen? Is er iets dat je met de kennis van nu anders gedaan zou hebben?
8. Welk advies zou je mij nu geven?
9. Zie je iets van jezelf in mij?
10. Denk je dat wij nader tot elkaar zouden kunnen komen? Wat zou je nu aan onze relatie veranderen?
11. Is er iets dat je mij wilt vragen?

Nu je enkele ongelooflijke verhalen van je ouders hebt verzameld is het tijd om ze goed te bewaren. StoryTerrace is gespecialiseerd in het uitwerken van levensverhalen en herinneringen. We brengen ze samen in een prachtig boek dat nog generaties lang kan worden doorgegeven.

Neem vandaag nog contact met ons op en ontdek hoe je kunt beginnen met een biografie. Of schrijf je in voor onze nieuwsbrief zodat je niets van ons hoeft te missen.

Here at StoryTerrace, we typically write memoirs for older individuals who have extensive life stories – from the ages of 50 and above.

However, we have noticed a rise in the number of autobiographies being written by the younger generation. Not just in our service, but across a plethora of prolific figures in the public domain.

Therefore, we decided to explore this further and commissioned a large-scale, nationally representative study to delve into the lives of Brits to see how people are looking to turn their lives around this year, post-pandemic, to ensure they have life stories that are worth writing about in years to come.

What did we find?

What we found was extremely interesting and highlighted a shift in the younger generations who are motivated, now more than ever, to live life to the fullest with over half the population aiming to make their 30s their most exciting years yet!

How are they planning to go about doing this?

Our research demonstrates that our traditional life trajectories have evolved from our ancestors. For example, over a third of men and women across the nation have decided to delay starting a family until they have achieved more personal goals. This might be traveling the world, or taking the leap into your dream career, or expanding your social circle to meet more new faces. The opportunities in the modern world are endless, with over a third of the population agreeing they are determined to accumulate enough life experience in the next 10 years to be able to write a memoir by the time they’re 40.

What does this mean for the future of life stories being written?

Evidently, our life stories are peaking from a much earlier age. Subsequently, we are expecting to see a significant rise in the number of autobiographies being penned from a younger audience. Coupled with the stats, this is unsurprising as we live in a society littered with opportunity and easier access to exciting new adventures.

Here are the key findings from the survey* we commissioned:

• 34% (6,058,000) say they have decided to delay parenthood until they’ve achieved some personal goals.
• 33% (8,864,000) say they are no longer prioritizing marriage because they want to work on themselves and their future life plans.
• 10% (2,776,000) said they are putting their career prospects on hold so they can travel the world.
• 21% (3,838,000) are keen to have children earlier than they initially intended.
• 34% (9,162,000) said they will not be doing their current job in a year's time.
• 28% (1,282,500) said they want to make a new circle of friends for the new year.
• 13% (3,131,000) said they are planning on taking a sabbatical.
• 37% (1,689,600) agreed that in 2022 they will turn their life around as these past two years have been some of the worst of their life.
• 54% (9,864,000) said they plan to make their 30s the most exciting years of their life.
• 39% (1,000,800) feel that by the age of 40 they will have experienced enough to write their life story so far.

*The research was conducted by StoryTerrace across a nationally representative cohort of 2,090 respondents and complies with the British Polling Council. Due to the nationally representative nature of the research, our data is able to predict the number of people in the UK who would share this sentiment.

Have you been inspired to write your own biography? We're here to help! Get in touch with StoryTerrace or sign up for our newsletter to find out how we can help you to capture the life stories that matter.

Brian Lewis was 12-years-old when he beat an international chess Grandmaster at the game. But it wasn't just his age that made him exceptional, or even the fact that he had only been playing for four years.

Part of the first Windrush Generation, Brian hails from one of just eight Black families in Micklefield Council Estate, High Wycombe.

"As kids, we didn't know why our parents made us walk together, it was only when we got to school that we saw the name-calling and the jokes, and realized that we were different and that we were going to have to learn to defend ourselves or just take it," he tells VT of the implicit racism and bigotry within the town.

However, this all changed when an imposing new teacher, named Mr. Green, formed a chess club. As Brian describes it, "there was no Black or white — we were just a chess team".

The impact that this had on him, and other Black children within the school, was lasting.

Brian, now 55, says that he and his peers probably would have not known what chess was if it wasn't for Mr. Green.

The teacher, who was white, was more tolerant than the other educators within the school — and the chess club quickly became a place where Black children could integrate with white kids.

"We became a team and those racial barriers broke down eventually as we continued to play each other," he recalls. "It was probably the only interaction we had with white people outside of school because we couldn't go to their homes or play on the streets with them. Our parents realized that the club was a good chance to engage with someone from the white race outside of the classroom."

For his part, Mr. Green was keen to make sure the team bonded — he instilled in them the conviction that they together were 'Micklefield', a council estate school, who stood together when they went to play "posher" schools.

"When other schools played us, it was a shock, especially because there were black kids in the chess team. He told us that it was a middle-class game, but that we need to take our working-class values, and work hard, strive hard, and not be intimidated. We did it.

"The hostility wasn't obvious, but I would be stared at by the students and the teachers. You could tell that it was the first time that some of them had even shaken a Black boy's hand."

Eventually, the team produced five of High Wycombe's chess champions in four years — of which Brian was the most notable.

He won the local championships, and then he beat the man who had taught him the very game, Mr. Green — who pointed him in the direction of a local chess club.

It was there that Brian started to establish himself as a competitive player amongst adults. He was 12-years-old when he was chosen to play an International Grandmaster, who came to High Wycombe to play 20 members.

Speaking about that day, Brian tells me, "He had beaten everyone, and then there was just me left. You could see that there was whispering, but I was just focused on the game. Finally, he resigned, and I couldn't believe it. He looked at me, said 'Well done son,' and shook my hand."

"There was just elation that a 12-year-old Black kid had beaten a Grandmaster, who was in his 30s, and had earned his spurs by beating some of the best in the world. I thought it can't get any better than this. There was so much pride because I had not only become established in Micklefield, but in High Wycombe too."

Brian became somewhat of a local celebrity, and he says that the fame he accrued through newspaper articles and being stopped on the street helped ease racial tensions at his school. "I didn't know at the time that becoming a chess champion as a Black boy would get so much coverage, and that it would help other Black kids."

Soon afterward, he was made the first Black prefect of his school, which gave him "establishment". "The racism became less prevalent, and it definitely made it easier for the Black boys who followed me, because we weren't just 'Black' now, we were just normal kids who played football, chess, and cricket, so the hostility subsided quite rapidly."

Decades on, Brian acknowledges that this points to another issue — that is, the burden placed on Black and minority ethnic children to overachieve in order to be accepted. "Without chess, I don't know, the hostility may have continued all the way through. Our parents always told us that we had to overachieve and do better than the white person if we wanted to get ahead. It wasn't a level playing field and they made that very clear."

"I've met some Black students who said that my becoming a chess master helped them. We were all facing the same challenges, but the fact that I was an emblem of the school took away from all those stereotypical notions people held about Black kids."

Ultimately, Brian's chess journey ended on a high: on the day that he beat the International Grandmaster.

He explains that his secondary school didn't have a chess team, and that his parents split up. This resulted in him becoming a caregiver for his younger brother while his mother worked night shifts at the hospital. "Life just took a different direction, and I became a parent, really," he adds. "Chess was placed on the back burner because other things were going on in terms of family dynamics, and moving to secondary school. I just changed, really."

Brian does have one regret — seeing how far he could have gone. "If at that age, I could beat a Grandmaster, where could I have got to?" he questions. "That's when the book ended for chess and me, it ended when I was 12."

When I ask whether this has anything to do with privilege, he concedes that, yes, he would have been more likely to pursue the game if he had been born under different circumstances, and if he had attended a private school, which would have had the time and resources to push him.

Now, Brian is an accountant.

It's rather serendipitous, he laughs: "They do say that people who play chess are good with numbers. And I am good when it comes to retention and strategic thinking."

Brian did introduce his teenage son to the game, and it's a talent that clearly runs in the family as he went on to play for the county. Ultimately, however, his love of chess now boils down to pulling up an app when he's on a long journey, and playing against a computer.

But he still credits Mr. Green for his great achievement. He tells me that after leaving for secondary school, Mr. Green left Micklefield himself — and that they've had no contact since. Understandably, the 55-year-old wants to go back to where it all began, take the book he penned about the experience, Check Mate, and see if anyone has his contact details.

"If he's alive, I'd really like to thank him," he says.

This original article appeared on VT.co and is reproduced with kind permission. You can buy Brian's book on Amazon.

Contact StoryTerrace to learn more about how you can bring your - or a loved one's - story to life.

We all know the saying: With age comes wisdom.

If we add a little arithmetic to those words, you could say that people who are 100+ years old can offer up loads of powerful, time-tested wisdom. Think about it — those who have been blessed to become centenarians undoubtedly have lived long enough to corral a vast supply of advice from lessons learned, life experiences, happy occasions, distinct memories, and even perhaps a stop in the "School of Hard Knocks." Maybe that even describes you.

This year, the United Nations says about 573,000 centenarians are living worldwide. That’s up from 450,000 just two years ago. The U.S. has the highest number of centenarians on the planet with 97,000; Japan is #2 with 79,000.

More fun facts:

The world’s oldest person is a 117-year-old woman named Kane Tanaka, living in Japan. She actually gets the title of supercentenarian, since she’s older than 110. And the world's oldest man, Saturnino de la Fuente of Spain, just turned 112.

Researchers believe that if the U.S. population of centenarians keeps increasing at its current rate, there could be nearly 1 million people who are 100 years or older by 2050 in the United States.

At 95, Queen Elizabeth II of England knows just how remarkable it is to reach 100 years old. Her Majesty is one of the few heads of state who actually sends personalized 100th birthday wishes to anyone who requests it.

Here at StoryTerrace, we happily scoured our resources to pull together some thoughtful advice from people across the globe who are 100 years or older.

Sitting Still Is a No-No

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Of course, we know that working out, being on our feet as often as possible, and using our brain is good for our health and well-being. And these folks can prove it, which is likely why they shared this centenarian advice:

“You must keep active, or you will just wither away. Always be involved in some activity.” — Miriam Henson, 105

“Get involved. You’ll find pleasure and sometimes disappointment, but there is a sense of achievement if you participate in a successful undertaking, whether it is organizational or professional.” — Murray Shusterman, 100

“It is very important to have a widespread curiosity about life.” — Irving Kahn, 106

“Be good, don’t complain — just get up and do.” — Jennie Cascone, 100

“Do things that you’ve never done before.” — Lillian Modell, 100

“I’ll never retire as long as I live — that’s like retiring from life! I’ll never stop writing, teaching, lecturing. If you’re in good health, living is exciting on its own.” — Bel Kaufman, 101

They Talk, We Listen

Photo Credit: Getty Images

The power of positivity isn’t just a pithy phrase. These happy old-timers remind us that a good attitude and mindset can take you very far. It certainly worked for them!

“I try not to make a big fuss over things. I always said, ‘This too shall pass.’” — Barbara Brody, 102

“Think positively, enjoy your children, enjoy your life.” — Anne Lamont, 100

“If it can be fixed, fix it!” — Anne Lomedico, 104

“Don’t fight the day, just let it be. Get up and be positive.” — Gussie Levine, 100

“Sow good seeds for your children. Teach your children to give.” — Winifred Thomas, 101

Getting There Is Half the Fun

So how did these amazing humans get to 100 years old — and then some?

As you can see, many centenarians have happily doled out wonderful advice about anything you can think of. When it comes to their longevity, their suggestions run the gambit too — and some just have no idea!

When Alexander Imich was asked at age 111 how he lived so long, he replied: “I don’t know, I simply didn’t die earlier. I have no idea how this happened.”

“Ain’t no secret, just keep in touch with God and do the right thing, that’s all I know,” 110-year-old Agnes Fenton noted.

Then there’s 106-year-old Edith Atkinson Wylie who ate her favorite food every single day: Cheetos. She says it’s those crunchy bright orange snacks and her good genes that helped her live a long — and tasty! — life.

Food seems to be a common idea when answering the question of longevity.

Susannah Mushatt Jones, who lived to be 116, had a hearty breakfast of bacon, eggs, and grits every day — and she’d swipe an extra piece of bacon to enjoy later. She loved it so much, there was even a sign in her kitchen that read: “Bacon makes everything better.” For Susannah, that sure does seem to be true!

When a doctor asked Elizabeth Sullivan if she was following a healthy diet, she said, “Certainly not, I drink three Dr. Peppers a day.” Concerned for her health, her doctor told her that was too much sugar and she’d die if she continued drinking so much soda. Well, she got to be 104, and it was her doctor who passed away years before she did. “So I guess the sugar in the Dr. Peppers has kept me alive all this time,” Elizabeth quipped.

Oh, What Fun

Susannah Mushatt Jones, the bacon lover, also had another unexpected response — she loved pretty underthings and wore them regularly. Her family shared a story that when she was undressing in a doctor’s office for an EKG, the doctors and nurses were surprised to see her wearing her Bloomingdale’s lingerie. To which Susannah responded, “Oh sure, you can never get too old to wear fancy lingerie.”

And finally, perhaps the advice we can all relate to is from centenarian Gertrude Weber, who died at 116. One of the secrets to her “happy life was an ability to nap whenever the urge to sleep” came around.

Photo Credit: JupiterImages

Your Turn

If you’re like us, all of this wisdom has us thinking that we, too, have some advice to share. We’re pretty sure you do, too.

There’s no better way to impart your thoughts to your children and grandchildren than by capturing your very own life story and wisdom in a StoryTerrace memoir. It’ll be a treasure for you and your family when you’re 100 years old — and hopefully even longer.

Have you been inspired to write your own biography? We're here to help! Just get in touch with StoryTerrace or sign up for our newsletter today. You and your family will be glad you did.