A person who tells anecdotes in a skillful and amusing way; a storyteller; a narrator
If you do not find the answer to a question below, please call 337-321-2256 or message us.
Absolutely! Many of our storytellers are happy to share about their stress-free interviews and informative, professional finished products. Please call and request references.
Yes. We call these books tribute books. In order to write a tribute book about someone who has passed away, we interview those who knew him or her best, such as spouses, siblings, parents, relatives, and friends.
Yes. If an individual is still able to communicate effectively, we will send a writer to interview him or her directly. If an individual has communication or memory struggles, we will interview those who know him or her best. We find that siblings, spouses, children, and other loved ones often piece together the portrait of a lifetime beautifully.
If two individuals' lives intertwine heavily—such as a couple married for 50 years—then we suggest creating a single life story book with alternating narration.
To see an example of a couples’ life story book, click here.
You can give us a call or request references. You can also further explore our website, especially the press page, which displays in-depth news coverage or articles about Raconteur.
One of our co-founders, Joshua or Olivia Savoie, will be in touch as soon as possible. We usually reach out within two business days. Should you want to speak with someone immediately, give us a call right away.
We have never come across an uninteresting life story book subject. Instead, we have discovered that every life is unique and that memories are held dear by loved ones. Thus, your book will be interesting and special for you and your family. In addition, our interview questions help unearth your most compelling memories.
Raconteur is based in Lafayette, Louisiana. However, Raconteur writers often travel to meet storytellers nationwide or conduct interviews via Zoom.
Although we strive to make our website as informative as possible, we realize that not every question can be answered here. We invite you to give us a call.
Every individual lives a uniquely compelling life. An African proverb says, "Every time an old man dies, a library burns." By preserving stories in a life story or tribute book, you effectively save one-of-a-kind books of memories that will inform and inspire present and future generations.
For those who don't consider themselves writers or who have never written a book-length work, the idea of documenting an entire lifetime can be daunting. Some Raconteur clients have toiled with the dream or task of preserving their stories for upwards of 40 years. Then, when Raconteur steps in, the intimidating, seemingly endless project turns into a simple, guided journey that only requires a few hours of the individual's time.
Although Raconteur specializes in writing books for people 55 and older, we write for all age groups. For example, we produce tribute books for children or young adults or life story books for people in their 30s and 40s.
You will receive a list of recommended photos prior to your interviews. In addition, your writer will also be able to 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 three to six months of the initial interview.
Interviews last between two and four hours and are ideally held on consecutive days. If health or other concerns warrant shorter interview times, we are happy to accommodate. In general, the writer interviews the subject for 10 to 12 hours total.
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.
You can spend as much or as little time as you like. The only time you must spend includes the interview hours (typically 10 to 12) and time reviewing the finished book. Overall, you will likely spend less than a day's time contributing to a lasting family heirloom.
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 easy, guided life story preservation journey.
Yes. We have completed several books that blend our writing with that of our storytellers. 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 expand 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 childhood memories and progress 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.
You are welcome to pay in full. However, 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 stories are catered to individual needs. There is no one size fits all. In order to assess how extensive of a life story you will need, we must talk with you. After a brief conversation, we will be able to provide a cost estimate.