The Life Story Book
Your memories and stories captured and preserved in a beautiful book.
Writing a life story book can seem daunting or even impossible, but with my help, it can also be joyful, life-affirming, and hugely rewarding. I work with my storytellers and their families every step of the way, ensuring each life story book paints a true portrait of the storyteller. A life story book that they are proud to share.
“Alice, you have done a wonderful job, and have engaged with my mother in a way that has got the story out that I know she wanted to tell.
— Mitch, 2024
If you have any questions, do get in touch. I am always happy to discuss a project, so contact me to find out more.
The gift of a Life Story Book
I help storytellers across the UK and beyond recall their stories, memories, thoughts, and feelings. I gently edit their words into the written form, taking care to retain the storyteller’s tone of voice, mannerisms, and humour whilst crafting an engaging narrative.
For those who love the permanence and beauty of print, a life story book is perfect. It’s tactile, timeless, needs no tech and can be read and revisited again and again. Our life story books become treasured heirlooms – one that gives future generations a glimpse into your world, in your own voice. We create stunning life story books, so that our storytellers and their families can enjoy, share and feel pride in their own stories for years to come.
Whether you’re creating a life story for a milestone birthday, as a family keepsake, or simply to reflect on a rich and meaningful life, we make the process easy and rewarding. Each book is handled with care, attention and respect.
Get in touch to find out about gift vouchers
THE LIFE STORY BOOK PACKAGES
Our services are bespoke, but here are a few examples of our packages to give you an idea of what we can do!
The Concise Life Story Book
We explore and capture those moments, memories and stories that are important to you and your family.
● Planning
● Two to three hours of interviews
● 15 - 20 photographs
● One set of major and one set of minor edits
● Choice of three cover designs
You receive
● Two printed books - hardback or softback
● Digital PDF
● Approximate word count: 7,500
● Approximate number of pages: 50
Cost: £1,600
The Classic Life Story Book
We capture your life story, your family stories, and your family histories in depth. Our most popular option.
● Planning
● Four to five hours of interviews
● 30 - 40 photographs
● One set of major and one set of minor edits
● Choice of three cover designs
You receive
● Four printed books - hardback or softback
● Digital PDF
● Approximate word count: 18,000
● Approximate number of pages: 100
Cost: £4,200
The Complete Life Story Book
Perfect for those who have lived a big life, have a great memory and lots of family stories to share.
● Planning
● Six to eight hours of interviews
● Up to 60 photographs
● One set of major and one set of minor edits
● Choice of three cover designs
You receive
● Eight printed books - hardback or softback
● Digital PDF
● Approximate word count: 28,000
● Approximate number of pages: 140
Cost: £6,200
‘I could not be more delighted in the way Alice worked with me to produce a book of my life in such a professional and creative manner. She made what seemed, at the start, to be a very daunting task, into a real pleasure and I am thrilled with the result. I can't recommend her more highly.'
Richard C, 2022
The making of a life story book – How It Works
Planning
● The first step is a conversation or two with our storyteller. We discuss the process and go through my pre-interview questionnaire so I can learn more about my storyteller and the book they want to create.
This stage is also really helpful for the storyteller, hopefully giving confidence that the process will be a lot of fun as well as helping them to start recalling stories they may wish to share.
Talking
● The heart of the book comes from a recorded life story interview. I know exactly which questions to ask, how to ask, and when. I know when to prompt and when to pause. I know how to encourage my storytellers to share their thoughts, feelings, reflections, and even values alongside their memories and stories.
Writing, editing and tweaking
● After the interview, the recording is transcribed and then edited, adding structure to the story, whilst retaining our storyteller’s words, tone of voice, and mannerisms. This draft is sent back to the storyteller for editing, and often, further details are added.
Designing
● Next, we design each book and add images and photos. We discuss book size and cover options.
Printing
● Only once you are 100% happy will we send your book to be printed.
We offer a totally bespoke service. I am always happy to incorporate existing pieces of writing, such as letters or diaries, as well as additional family photos to add context.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
There are numerous optional add-ons you might choose, so please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss your project and for a bespoke quote.
Start Your Life Story Book Today
If you’ve been thinking about how to record your life story book or create a deeply personal story book for someone you love, now’s the time. Whether you’re in London, Bristol, Edinburgh or anywhere in the UK, I’ll guide you through every step with warmth and experience. Let’s capture your life in a book that truly reflects you.