Reviews of

From Shoeboxes to Books: Writing Great Personal Histories

by Amy J. Oaks Long

“Are you looking for an easy way to write your personal history?  From Shoeboxes to Books: Writing Great Personal Histories has the answer.  Whether you are collecting life stories or taping oral histories, or whether you are in the writing phase or selecting a printer, this book covers from A-Z your questions.  Personal history has just become easier.  This book is terrific!”
Susan Easton Black
Professor, Author

“I have found Amy’s book to be an excellent addition to my lifestory writing classes as well as a valuable resource to recommend to those who wish to work on their own.  It is well written, easy to use and packed with helpful suggestions for either the novice or experienced writer.  I give it four stars on my website and in my newsletter.”
Judy H. Wright
Author and Personal Historian

“From Shoeboxes to Books: Writing Great Personal Histories is inviting, direct, and ultimately practical. If you're looking for a book of theory and philosophical rhetoric, this is not the book for you. But if you want a guide that will take you by the hand and walk you through the basic process of assembling a personal history for yourself or another, this is definitely worth the investment. Amy Oaks Long, using a very readable style and format, takes you through the whole process--from organizing that pile of stuff in the corner of your closet to conducting an effective oral history to negotiating with a printer to publish your final product for family and friends--and all without breaking the family bank. Particularly helpful are the forms, timelines, and other tidbits that comprise the several appendixes occupying the final 40% of the book. A must read for the beginner or novice, a practical reminder for the more experienced biographer--you simply can't miss with 'From Shoeboxes to Books'!”
Dan Hogan
Founder, Sheridan Publishing

“The book From Shoeboxes to Books: Writing Great Personal Histories by Amy J. Oaks Long divides writing a personal history into ten projects that take you step by step from carefully preserving your precious photographs and documents, to writing and publishing your personal history. Each project is complete with examples of what to do and common mistakes to avoid, while forms located in the appendix simplify the tasks. With its emphasis on creating a quality heirloom, even within a budget, this book will prove invaluable to anyone interested in family history.  With its step-by-step projects, this book is full of information and ideas that will prove invaluable to anyone interested in preserving memories for future generations.”
Chris Kennard & Barbara Williams
Bitsofivory.com

“From Shoeboxes to Books: Writing Great Personal Histories” is the best thing I have seen.  It is an excellent guide and resource for anyone wishing to write a personal history.  It is clear, easy to understand yet sophisticated.  It asks and answers the important questions.  The book is persuasive and has influenced me to correct some of the things I have been doing.”
Ray Hillam
Brigham Young University, Professor emeritus