FAQs

How much does a memoir cost?

A basic memoir starts at $10,000. Many factors influence the investment including: number of pages, and photos, hours of interviewing, authorship, distribution method, and format. Creation of your memoir is a personal, customized experience. Each is individually priced based on your preferences, which we’ll uncover during our first conversation, for which there is no cost.

Who does the writing and interviewing?

That’s me, Leslie Mendelson Morris. Proofreading, cover design, and print production are done by my trusted colleagues, people I have worked with for more than a decade and who all work under an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement).

How long will it take to write my memoir?

A short memoir can be completed in as few as 4-5 months whereas longer ones can take up to a year.

When is the best time for me to create my memoir?

To paraphrase a well-known proverb: The best time was yesterday and the second best time is today. The truth is, there is a sweet spot. The author needs to have enough life experience to share and the capacity to communicate it.

May I review the book before it’s published?

Of course! Your review time is built into the production schedule.

Who owns the copyright?

You do! Every. Last. Word.

I’ve got family secrets to share. Big ones. Can you distribute the book after I cross over the rainbow bridge?

Absolutely. Your secrets are safe with me.

How are the interviews done?

If you are local to the San Francisco Bay Area then I’d prefer we do them in-person. If you are outside of the Bay then we can do them by Zoom or I can travel to you.

How does this differ from a service like Storyworth?

Storyworth is a great option for someone who is willing and able to use their computer to answer a weekly prompt. As a professional writer, I use a variety of interviewing techniques to draw the content out of authors. I also supplement the interviews with additional research then write it to achieve the author’s goals.

May I read someone else’s completed memoir?

Yes! Eileen Pensky has allowed her memoir to be shared. I can provide you with additional memoirs upon request.

Do you ever donate your services?

I happily donate one memoir each year. Past recipients of donations are the Cancer Support Community of the San Francisco Bay Area and Danville Children’s Guild. Reach out if you’d like your cause to be considered for 2027.

Do you use AI?

The only place I use AI is for the first pass at transcribing our meeting recordings.

Do you do other kinds of writing?

Yes, I also do business ghostwriting. Learn more here.