our-process

When Raconteur steps in, the intimidating, seemingly endless project turns into a simple, guided journey that only requires several hours of the individual's time.

Our Process

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 forty years. Then, when Raconteur steps in, the intimidating, seemingly endless project turns into a simple, guided journey that only requires several hours of the individual's time.

Step 1. Consultation

During the telephone or in-person consultation, the Raconteur project manager learns about your story, discusses your goals, answers questions, provides an estimate, and schedules your interviews.

Step 2. Photo Selection

In-between your consultation and interviews, you receive a checklist to guide you as you gather treasured photographs and documents.

Step 3. Interview

The writer meets you at your home. She asks guided interview questions and listens to additional information you add. Afterwards, she helps finalize your photo selection and scans the photographs.

Step 4. Writing

The writer transforms your interview transcript into a unified story, striving to keep your voice intact while she organizes memories, consolidates ideas, and refines your narrative.

Step 5. Review

You review the book's manuscript, photo integration, and cover design before publication. Raconteur proofreaders and editors review it too.

Step 6. Your Life Story

After the Raconteur team formats your book, it goes to press. A beautiful heirloom book emerges within a few weeks.