Frequently Asked Questions About Family History Books

What exactly is a Backstory?

A Backstory is the defining moments, triumphs, heartbreaks, turning points, and quiet revelations that shape a life and legacy. Understanding your family’s backstory is key to knowing who you are, and where you came from. Essential to discovering the forces that have shaped you. The values that define you. These stories can’t be recaptured once the teller is gone.

What makes Backstory different?

Backstory is based on human connection, which comes from two people who are actively engaged. Some DIY platforms bypass this through weekly email prompts or talking into a microphone, using AI to transcribe the conversation. This is not Backstory.

Backstory chooses the path of authentic human connection. No screens. No digital tools. Just two people in conversation. My mission is connect with the storyteller to understand what they want to say. I ask follow-up questions and draw out forgotten memories. Then I apply my writing and editing skills to create the book you or your loved one envisioned. It’s a beautiful process that I love, and my clients do too.

What is a personal historian?

A personal historian is a professional interviewer and writer who helps individuals and families document life stories, family histories, and legacies. I specialize in working with seniors to preserve their stories through one-on-one interviews and professional writing. Unlike a ghostwriters, I interview you and then write in your authentic voice, creating a book or collection that becomes a family heirloom.

What services do you offer?

I offer family history books, letters to loved ones, short story collections, hourly story sessions, and workshops. I have developed a simple and meaningful process to unlock stories through guided, one-on-one conversations. Unlike a ghostwriters, I interview clients and then write in their authentic voice, creating a book or collection that becomes a family heirloom.


How does payment work?

A 50% deposit is required to start work and will be applied to the final balance. Payments are non-refundable once work has started, and are subject to review prior to project initiation. Any approved refunds will be issued to the original payment method only.

What is included in your services?

Backstory offers highly personalized services and several options, all slightly different based on the scope of the project. For a complete family history project, for instance, the fee includes: Initial consultation and planning sessions, between 4-5 recorded interviews Transcription, writing and narrative development in your voice, revisions, photo scanning, book layout, two printed book copies, audio of interviews and digital PDF of document.

What is your background?

I am a professional writer, interviewer, and editor who has worked with seniors in many capacities.

Do you travel to see people in person?

Yes! For clients in Berkeley, Oakland, Albany, El Cerrito, Kensington, Emeryville, and Richmond, I offer in-home interviews as part of my concierge service. This is especially helpful for seniors with mobility challenges. I also work via Zoom for clients anywhere in the country.

Can a personal historian work with people with dementia or memory loss?‍

Yes. I have experience interviewing seniors with mild to moderate cognitive decline and can adapt my approach. I work slowly, use memory prompts (photo, music, objects) and can talk to family members to help fill in stories. For advanced dementia, I focus on creating a legacy book based on family memories and existing materials.

My workshops are designed so that everyone can participate, including those who have difficulty writing due to mobility, physical, and verbal challenges. We use a variety of approaches to help participants share and capture their stories, including verbal storytelling, partnered sharing, and dictation. I will always find a way to make it work. If you have specific accessibility needs, please let me know before registering.

What areas do you serve?

I offer in-person services in Berkeley, Oakland, Albany, El Cerrito, Kensington, Emeryville, Richmond, and surrounding East Bay communities. I am also available anywhere remotely through Zoom. I'm happy to travel for larger projects within the San Francisco Bay Area.

How do I preserve my elderly parent’s life story before it’s too late?

When a person is gone, their stories go with them. So many people have shared their regrets with me, and I encourage adult children to start a conversation as soon as possible! Many people tell they find it awkward and uncomfortable. My advice is not to frame it as conversation, not a formal interview. Initiate in a way that feels natural, based on your inherent curiosity and wanting to get to know them better. Techniques include asking them about a photo, showing them an object that is important to them, or coming prepared with a few prompts such as: “What was a turning point in your work life.” You can ask them if they mind if you record them, or set up a conversation with a friend and take a video. Read my blog about

What is a legacy letter and how do I write one?

A legacy letter (also called an ethical will) is a personal document where you share your values, life lessons, stories, and hopes with the people you love. Unlike a legal will, which passes on possessions, a legacy letter passes on meaning. To write one, start by choosing who you want to write to, and then answer a few questions, such as: What do I most want the people I love to know about me? What have I learned? What do I hope for them? These are written in your own voice, and can be serious or even funny. Some people like to include things like photos, too.

How long does a family history or story collection take?

Each project is different, and each one is defined at the outset. A family history book takes two months from our first interview to your printed book in hand. Story collections and letters to loved ones both take a month. I also offer hourly sessions to help you or your loved one organize papers, photos, and even document the meaning of important objects.

What is the difference between a family history book and a memoir?

A family history book documents the story of your family across generations, and the events that shaped your lineage. It’s a record meant to be passed down and added to over time. A memoir is more personal. It focuses on your experiences, emotions, and the meaning you've made from them. It’s often more reflective, and covers a specific event or time, rather than capturing the broader scope of time.

How much does it cost to have a family history book written?

My services range from small to large, and my pricing reflects this. My work is highly personalized, depending on the number of visits, pages, and photos. Contact me for a custom quote based on your project.

How do I get started?

Set up a free 20-minute consultation, no obligation or pressure. Then we can talk about your goals and how we might work together