$20.00
Memoir remains one of the most powerful—and challenging—forms of storytelling. Writing from lived experience requires not only honesty, but craft, structure, and an understanding of today’s publishing landscape. In a time when personal stories are everywhere, what makes a memoir stand out?
This panel brings together accomplished memoirists from diverse backgrounds to explore how real life becomes meaningful literature. Panelists will discuss the creative, emotional, and practical considerations of writing memoir—from shaping narrative and voice to navigating publication and market positioning.
Whether you’re in the early stages of drafting or revising a completed manuscript, this conversation offers grounded insights, real-world experience, and practical guidance for writers serious about memoir.
You’ll learn:
This panel is ideal for writers who are exploring memoir as both an art form and a publishable project.
Deborah Levine Herman is a bestselling author, publisher, and longtime guide to memoir and narrative nonfiction. She is the author of thirteen books, including the internationally acclaimed Member of the Family: My Story of Charles Manson, Life Inside His Cult and the Darkness that Ended the Sixties, co-written with Dianne Lake. The book is recognized for its psychological depth, ethical clarity, and compassion in addressing trauma and coercive control.
With more than twenty-five years in publishing as a literary agent, editor, author, and educator, Herman has helped writers shape deeply personal stories into work that resonates widely. She is also co-author of Write the Perfect Book Proposal and author of Spiritual Writing from Inspiration to Publication. She lives in New England, where she continues to mentor memoirists committed to telling their stories with integrity and heart.
Chester L. Richards is a retired aerospace engineer, inventor with nineteen patents, and lifelong storyteller. While still in college, he co-authored the iconic Star Trek episode “The Tholian Web,” launching a creative life fueled by curiosity and adventure.
He is the author of the Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist series, including From The Potato to Star Trek and Beyond and The Trek Continues. Through his books and essays, Richards blends wit, wonder, science, and reflection, inviting readers to see life itself as the greatest adventure. chesterlrichards.com
Sue William Silverman is an award-winning author known for her fearless explorations of trauma, identity, and personal transformation. Her latest book, Selected Misdemeanors: Essays at the Mercy of the Reader, showcases her signature lyricism and unflinching honesty.
Her previous works include Acetylene Torch Songs, How to Survive Death and Other Inconveniences, Because I Remember Terror, Father, I Remember You, and The Pat Boone Fan Club. Silverman co-chairs the MFA in Writing Program at Vermont College of Fine Arts and frequently appears in national media. SueWilliamSilverman.com
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Desireé Duffy is the founder of Black Château, a marketing and public relations agency, and the creator of Books That Make You and The BookFest®. A champion of storytelling, she produces events and media experiences that connect authors with readers worldwide.
Duffy is a member of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences and serves on the board of the Writers and Publishers Network. She is an experienced event producer, host, and speaker advocate dedicated to amplifying powerful stories across platforms.
