Writing a book--informal poll

[michelleds]

Let’s say that I was going to write a book about my life and my conversion. Would you rather read a regular factual autobiography or a novel based on the life? What if you or someone you love was struggling with SSA issues–would that make a difference as to which you’d rather read?

 

[LemonAndLime]

I think I’d rather read a fact-based story, that would be more heart-warming and inspirational to someone than something that can’t say “100% true story!”

 

[JRKH]

I didn’t vote because it might depend…As a rule I prefer straight up biographies rather than biographical fiction.
That said though, the form you use might depend on the various people and influences that are part of your conversion story and how they might feel about being mentioned in your book.In this regard a “novel” might offer a good way to solidify, condense and simplify the many into a few persons.

Peace
James

 

[Joe_5859]

I think I’d rather read a fact-based story, that would be more heart-warming and inspirational to someone than something that can’t say “100% true story!”

I agree. If it’s being promoted as a conversion story, it would carry much more weight if it were factual. If it were a dramatization, then you give the reader the out to simply write off any part they don’t like as “Oh, that’s probably the fabricated part.”

Not that there’s anything wrong with dramatizations. I don’t mind seeing a movie like Braveheart that takes liberties with history in order to make a compelling movie. But if it’s a faith-based conversion, particularly involving something like SSA, I would much prefer it stick to the facts.

 

[Rascalking]

Truth is always stranger than fiction!

 

[smichhertz]

Truth is always stranger than fiction!

Amen!