The Six-Minute Memoir: Fifty-Five Short Essays on Life

The collection of short essays in The Six-Minute Memoir offers more joy than many books twice its size, inviting readers into the ordinary life of a woman with a family, friends, and a job. It explores living and dying as two sides of the same remarkable coin and includes writing prompts to help readers find their own treasure-filled moments.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2022
Publisher: University of Iowa Press

This remarkable collection of short essays brings forth more joy than many books twice its size. Carefully curated from two decades of Mary Helen Stefaniak's "Alive and Well" column in the Iowa Source, each essay warmly invites readers to immerse themselves in the everyday life of a woman who encompasses a family, cherished friends, a fulfilling job, a delightful array of cats, and a fascinating history of residing in a series of charming old houses throughout the turn of the twenty-first century, nestled in the heart of the Middle West.

One remarkable aunt reigns over a nineteen-acre pecan grove, where prosperity intertwines with an eclectic assortment of discarded treasures. The resonant sound of a borrowed hammer echoes with the essence of immortality. Poets, renowned for their lyrical prowess, emerge unexpectedly, adding an enchanting touch to the narrative. It becomes evident that living and dying are two interconnected facets of a remarkable coin.

Furthermore, the book concludes with thought-provoking writing prompts, encouraging readers to embark on a personal journey of discovery. These prompts invite individuals to seek out and cherish the moments in their own lives that might otherwise be overlooked but, when viewed through the lens of perspective and exquisite detail, transform into invaluable treasures. The Six-Minute Memoir serves as a gentle nudge, encouraging people to embrace their unique stories, regardless of their initial perception of whether they qualify as memoirs. By embracing the power of self-expression, individuals can unlock the profound essence of their lives and share their stories with the world, creating a lasting impact that resonates for generations to come.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781609388515