A biography is a piece of writing in which the author tells the story of someone's life other than their own. It is more than a simple reiteration of facts about that person, and rather, is an intimate portrayal of the experiences in that person's life. A good biography will be more personal than historical. Biographical works are typically non-fiction, but fiction can be used to portray certain aspects of the story. Often times names, dates, and places are changed for the protection of the real-life characters involved in the story.
Research for Biographical Writing
In order to complete a well-rounded biography, a great deal of research is required. Every story can be told in a variety of ways from a wide array of different perspectives. It pays to take the time to speak to and/or look into a number of resources when preparing to write a story about someone else. When telling another person's tale, one can never have enough detail from which to begin. An interesting way to tell a character's story is by telling it from a perspective other than their own. Beneath all of the facts and information, the writer must ultimately find the story they want to tell. Although quite difficult to do, successful biographers will focus on the part of the research that brings the subject most alive.
Dos and Don'ts of Writing Biography
Only include information that will contribute to the reader's understanding of the character. Everything found out in the research process does not need to be included in the finished product. Biographies that are padded with unnecessary details will be tedious and uninteresting. Avoid the "and then...and then..." style. Creativity is key to any, but especially, a chronological biography. Condense the story into a few sentences much like a pitch for a movie. This is a great way to stay focused on the most interesting aspect of the subject and his/her story.
Best Selling Biographies
According to Amazon.ca and Barnes & Noble Books, these are some of the current top selling biographies:
- Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson
- Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
- Oprah: A Biography by Kitty Kelley
- George Washington's Sacred Fire by Peter A. Lillback
- The Promise: President Obama, Year One by Jonathan Alter
With the proper skills and an interesting subject, any biography has the potential to become a best seller. Think of a person with a unique story that is worth telling, remember the tips given in this article, and get started!
Brandy Robertson - Brandy Robertson writes on a wide range of subjects including literature, religion, film and popular culture.
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