Preserving Your Family in Words - Class Starting 2/17 at Harper

Preserving Your Family in Words Class – Spring 2016

Wednesdays 7 p.m.-9 p.m. 2/17-3/16/16

Every family has stories. Some are humorous; some are inspiring; and one or two may just be tall tales. We have all heard them; but how many of us take the time to record these stories to pass down to future generations? Overwhelming, you say? Not after you take this class!

Perhaps you have started (or completed) the arduous task of tracing your family tree. What better way to bring those branches to life than with writing your family’s stories? Whether you want to start with just your own story, your immediate family, a particular point in your family’s history, or delve into the full history, you will find this a rewarding journey. The resulting collection is an ideal gift for weddings, graduations, birthdays or just because, to be treasured now and for generations to come. You may also consider creating a blog with your stories, so that other family members and friends can contribute additional narratives that can lead to more and more chapters. The joy that springs from this project is quite contagious!

You will learn techniques to interview family and friends, making them comfortable to tell their colorful stories in full detail. Self-reflection exercises will help you write your own recollections. Once all the information and tales are collected, you will learn how to organize the writing process and create your personal masterpiece.

We will look at several examples of sharing family history, from traditional formats such as memoirs, family history essays and family cookbooks, to less traditional such as online formats and craft projects. During class, we will explore different writing techniques that will help pull out long-forgotten memories or details. We will work together as a class to practice interviewing techniques and develop reader-centered writing. This helps produce rich stories that will be enjoyed by everyone for generations to come. Working together, we develop a very supportive, collaborative atmosphere. The last class features a potluck, with everyone bringing a favorite dish from his or her heritage or experience.

About the Instructor: Laura Ehrke is a published novelist, freelance writer and creative writing instructor. Having studied writing at Northwestern University and earned a Master of Liberal Arts degree from the University of Chicago, she has writing experience as a columnist, feature writer, blogger, business writer, public relations specialist, and creative writer. Her courses are designed to help students unleash their creativity while improving their skills and confidence as writers. Details at: lewriter.net.

Registration: Call Harper Continuing Ed at (847) 925-6300 or register online.