Mallary's words resonate so deeply, especially the part about conceiving of the book long before writing it. That invisible beginning is so real. I also kept journals from a young age, long before I ever thought I’d write a book. Years later, when it came time to write my book, I returned to those pages. They weren’t just memories—they were artifacts. Memoir, I’ve learned, doesn’t begin when we sit down to write. It begins the moment we start telling ourselves the truth.
Mallary's words resonate so deeply, especially the part about conceiving of the book long before writing it. That invisible beginning is so real. I also kept journals from a young age, long before I ever thought I’d write a book. Years later, when it came time to write my book, I returned to those pages. They weren’t just memories—they were artifacts. Memoir, I’ve learned, doesn’t begin when we sit down to write. It begins the moment we start telling ourselves the truth.
I’m so glad my words resonated with you, Fanen, and I hope you’ll check out SLIP.
What a beautiful line about how memoir begins “the moment we start telling ourselves the truth.” I, too, have found that to be true.
I read Mallory’s book early and it’s stunning. Happy Pub day!
It’s so good. I will work it into my Substack when it makes sense thematically.
Thank you so much, Stephanie! I love hearing that you read and enjoyed the book! 💗
Omg Mallary I must read your book it sounds so similar to mine (but also very different obviously) that comes out in October!!