Share Your Story with the World
Memoir Mentors Anthology
As we celebrate the 5-year anniversary of Memoir Mentors this May, I’m thrilled to announce our first anthology! This collection will showcase the brilliant writers in our community and highlight the diverse, inspiring stories that make our group so special.
Anthology Theme:
"The Day That Changed Everything"
Some days pass by quietly, blending into the rhythm of our lives. But every once in a while, there’s a day so profound it leaves an imprint—a day when everything shifts. For this anthology, we invite you to share the story of your day: the one that changed your life in ways you’ll never forget.
Maybe it was a joyful celebration, a heartbreaking loss, or a seemingly small moment that sparked a transformation. Perhaps it was a choice you made, an unexpected encounter, or a realization that altered your perspective.
Whatever your day looked like, we’d love to hear how it shaped the person you’ve become. This is your chance to reflect, celebrate, and share a piece of your journey with our community and beyond.
Plus, Share the Story Behind Your Story
In addition to your main piece, include a short 4-8 paragraph reflection answering (directly or indirectly) one or more of the following:
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What made you decide to write memoir?
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How has writing memoir changed your life?
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What has Memoir Mentors (or writing communities in general) meant to you?
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Has writing memoir surprised you in any way?
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Where do you call in from for our meetings? (Let’s show how international we are—bonus points for anyone who has joined from their car or RV! –Layla, Dee, and Esther, looking your direction!)
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Do you write in other genres besides memoir?
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What’s one of your favorite memoirs or books about writing memoir.
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Where can people find more of your writing?
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Submission Guidelines
How to Submit Your Personal Essay
- Length: Submissions should be up to 3,000 words (exceptions can be discussed). Life poetry is good too!
- Theme: “The Day That Changed Everything” – heartfelt, creative, and personal stories inspired by this theme.
- Originality: Submissions should be your original work. If you’ve previously published the story, let us know. It’s totally fine to use a chapter from your memoir so long as it can stand on its own.
- Formatting: Submit your story or poem as a Word document or Google Doc. Use 12 pt, Times New Roman, double-spaced.
- Title and name: Include the title and your name as you would like it to be published in the submission document itself.
- Deadline: Please send your submission by March 31, 2025 to anthology@memoirmentors.com.
- Share the Story Behind Your Story: include a short 4-8 paragraph reflection answering (directly or indirectly) one or more of the following:
-
- What made you decide to write memoir?
- How has writing memoir changed your life?
- What has Memoir Mentors (or writing communities in general) meant to you?
- Has writing memoir surprised you in any way?
- Where do you call in from for our meetings? (Let’s show how international we are—bonus points for anyone who has joined from their car or RV! –Layla, Dee, and Esther, looking your direction!)
- Do you write in other genres besides memoir?
- What’s one of your favorite memoirs or books about writing memoir.
- Where can people find more of your writing?
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- Compensation: I’m afraid I can’t pay contributors. I will be doing all the work to publish this on my own using my own funds. Contributors will have the opportunity to purchase copies of the anthology at cost (details to follow).
Author rights
Rights and Re-Publication
The rights to your work remain entirely your own. You are welcome to submit the same piece to other publications or platforms, as we do not require exclusivity.
Many memoirists find that publishing smaller excerpts or standalone pieces from their memoirs can be a great way to gain exposure and build interest in their larger project. This anthology is an excellent opportunity to showcase your work and can even be used to promote your memoir to a wider audience.
We’re here to celebrate your voice and your story, so feel free to share your work far and wide!
Selection Process:
Our goal is to curate a collection that resonates with readers and reflects the diverse voices within our community. While we may not be able to include every submission, please know that each story is valued and appreciated. We carefully review all entries and select those that best align with the anthology’s theme and vision.
By submitting your story, you agree to have it considered for publication in the anthology. Minor edits may be made for clarity and grammar, but we’ll consult you on any significant changes.
Thank you for being part of Memoir Mentors and for helping make this celebration a true reflection of our community’s talent and creativity. We can’t wait to read your stories!
We are committed to maintaining the integrity of your work. Minor edits may be made for clarity and grammar, but we will consult you on any significant changes. Thank you for trusting us with your stories and for contributing to the Memoir Mentors anthology.
Share Your Story with Memoir Mentors
Submit your personal essay and become a part of our inspiring anthology. We can’t wait to welcome your contribution!
Submission Deadline
Submit Your Essay by March 31, 2025
Please ensure your submission reaches us by March 31, 2025. You can send your essay via email to anthology@memoirmentors.com
I look forward to reading your submissions!