FAQ

Although Raconteur specializes in writing books for people 65 and older, we occasionally take on special projects for those in other age groups. For example, we produce tribute books for children or young adults.

You will receive a list of recommended photos prior to your interviews. After your writer hears your story, she will provide a customized photo checklist of photos that would complement the narrative. Throughout the process, our team will advise you. 

If you opt for in-person interviews, your writer will come to your home with a scanner. That way, your photos can be scanned without leaving your home. If you opt for Zoom interviews, your writer will help guide you in selecting and scanning photos for inclusion.  

Your story will be told from your own point of view. That means the book will be written in first person, using the word "I" to tell your story. If you would prefer the book be told from the third-person point of view, using "she/he" instead, we can discuss that option.

The books are often printed and delivered within six to eight months of the initial interview.

Interviews last for about three hours and are ideally held on consecutive days or every other weekday for two weeks. If health or other concerns warrant shorter interview times, we are happy to accommodate. Typically, the writer interviews the subject for 12 hours. 

Different book lengths include different numbers of photos, typically ranging from 50 to 75. However, we can include as many or as few as you like. In addition, we recommend and provide full color printing, although you may select black and white printing if you desire.

You have all the control. We only write what you tell us. Should you dislike something you shared, you can always remove it during the review period.

Every book is different in page count and size, which affects the cost. In general, hardcover heirloom book copies cost between $15 and $25.

Since we do all the heavy lifting—writing for several weeks, conducting research to fact-check, proofreading upwards of five times, advising on photo selection, picking photo placements and captions, designing the book, and overseeing publication—our subjects only have to invest time to participate in interviews (typically 12 hours), answer follow up questions, locate photographs, and then review the final work. 

We can send you an introductory packet including a sample book that makes a great wrapped gift for the recipient to open. The contents will inform the recipient about their guided life story preservation journey.

Oftentimes, yes. We have completed several books that blend our writing with that of our subjects. Prior to the first interview, we'd love to see a copy of your writing. That way, we can decide what to include in your book and what to expound upon.

No problem! A Raconteur writer can interview you via Zoom or travel to you.

You can either order bulk copies to distribute yourself or have our team set your book up for sale on major online retailers such as Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Please call us to discuss publishing options further.

We ask questions that begin with family history and childhood memories and then progress chronologically to the present. If you would like to see the questionnaire before your first interview, just ask and we will send an excerpt.

Although no action is necessary on your part, if you are eager to begin, you can jot down memories, names, or dates, speak to family members about certain stories to include, and locate memorabilia such as family photos, letters, and documents.

Although no action is necessary on your part, you are welcome to jot down special memories and notes about stories to include in the tribute book. You can talk to family and friends and invite them to contribute memories. It is also a good idea to pull photos you'd like to include.

Every cover is one-of-a-kind. Once our team gets to know you and your story, we will design a cover that fits you.

In-person interviews usually take place wherever you are most comfortable, such as your home or office. We can also conduct remote interviews.

Your writer will conduct the interviews. That way, she will spend time getting to know you personally and in-depth before she crafts your life story.

Most of our clients pay in three installments: the deposit due before the first interview, half of the total estimated price at the conclusion of the interviews, and the remaining balance prior to reviewing their manuscript.

You can pay via check, bank transfer, PayPal, or cash.

Every book is different in page count and size, which affects the cost. In general, hardcover heirloom book copies cost between $15 and $25.

Life story books are catered to individual needs. There is no one size fits all. In order to assess how extensive of a life story you or your loved one will need, we must receive a filled-out quote request form or speak on the phone. After reviewing the form or having a brief conversation, we will be able to provide a cost estimate.