Author Ann Lamott says she once sent a book of memoirs to a publication and received this response, "You've
made the mistake of thinking that everything about your life is interesting." We won't be that harsh, but do choose
a subject that is likely to appeal to others.
For examples of what we look for, read our stories now
online. Note that although these memoirs are nonfiction, they're written like a short story, with narrative
and dialogue. They have a beginning, a middle, and they come full circle to a conclusion. Your story does not need to
be extraordinary or involve a momentous event (although it can). Did your grandmother umpire your little league games?
Did that embarrass you, or did you think she looked cool in her uniform? Use detail; make us laugh, cry, sympathize,
learn something new or see things in a different light.
We pay $50.00 for accepted stories. Your acceptance of payment
indicates your permission for Doorways Memoirs to display your story online for approximately one year.
**You must be a permanent or part-time resident of Sarasota County, age 50 or older;
**Your
story must be true (no fiction); maximum 1500 words;
**One submission within our reading period: July 1st
to October 31st;
**Manuscripts received outside of these dates will not be considered;
**Selections will
be made at the end of the reading period;
**Previously published stories are acceptable, as long as you own the
copyright;
**E-mail
submissions only; send story in the body of an e-mail to: DoorwaysMemoirs@aol.com No attachments or photos. We prefer Times
New Roman, 12 pt, and please no bold or italics. Please include your name, address, birth date, phone
number, and e-mail address on the first page. At the end of your story, include a few lines about yourself.
We look forward to hearing from you. Please
share our site with your family and friends. We welcome readers from around the world, but remember that submissions
are limited to Sarasota County. It's your chance to shine.
Best of luck,
Doorways Memoirs Editorial Board