Jerry Tinsley
Many retired seniors find the need to put memories of pertinent parts of their lives into writing or on video to pass on to younger family members and friends. If you would like to see an example of how to write a memoir “right,” look no further than Quail Creek author Marlys Harper’s excellent book, Roots, Routes and Roads Taken. Published in June of 2024 through Amazon.com, it portrays her first 30 years.
What makes a great memoir? you might ask. First, the subject must be interesting. As a former Pan American stewardess and purser who traveled the world in her early 20s, Marlys provides wonderful insight into that exciting but exacting career. After leaving Pan Am, she used her well-developed Spanish speaking skills to live several years in Acapulco, Mexico. She describes the expatriate experience in forthright, sometimes humorous, sometimes sad details as she becomes part of a loving Mexican family.
Second, a readable memoir ought to be honest, revealing “warts and all” in a manner many of us can relate to, especially commonalities about childhood. Marlys examines her family function, and dysfunction, in excruciating, analytical specifics while describing her reactions at the time and her later growth beyond a very restrictive religious upbringing.
Third, a good memoir should use descriptive language and sensible sentence structure. Marlys’ broad vocabulary, authentic voice, and precise wording, as well as her illuminating use of short paragraphs and brief chapters, make her story imminently clear and compelling.
Marlys also describes overcoming the obstacles and challenges of living in, and learning about, a foreign culture. She does not shy away from analyzing her own behavior and decisions and charmingly bares her emotions throughout the book.
Her book is available through Amazon in paperback, hardcover, and Kindle formats. It may also be purchased online on Barnes & Noble and Walmart websites.