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Writing a non-boring family history with
Hazel Edwards
To many children, Hazel Edwards is known for her much-loved kid’s book, There’s A Hippopotamus On Our Roof Eating Cake. To genealogists, she’s a mentor for writing witty, interesting family histories. Throughout 2012, we’ll be featuring extracts from Hazel’s book, How To Write A Non-Boring Family History, for those of you wanting to publish your genealogy research in book form. First up, how to get started on your project
A
lthough it can be a fascinating journey of self-discovery, writing a family history is a big job. It’s wise to be clear in your own mind why you have undertaken this project. Which of these reasons is closest to yours? Something you’ve always wanted to do? Older relatives or locals have died recently and you’re conscious that family or local information is dying with them? You enjoy the research? Suddenly there’s time available? You’ve inherited all the bits of information, photos and letters? A significant event is approaching? People keep asking, “When are you going to write your family history book?” Some other reason? Some family historians are “seduced” by the process of gathering the material and never actually want to start writing it up. Their history is their lifelong hobby. What aspect of the process do you prefer? Planning “to do” lists? Sorting out old material (clippings, photos, letters, documents)? Tracking down relatives? Interviewing people? Organising material into written or visual format?
Recipe for writing a non-boring family history • • • • • • • • • • • • •
1 cup of self-raising imagination dates thyme (endless spoonfuls) researchitus, diluted sprinkle of ancestral curiosity pinch of opportunity flakes of serendipity zest of reader-researcher ½ litre of language, including mixed fruit of adjectives (used moderately) half-a-dozen embryonic ideas (egg-shaped) slurp of suspense, secrecy or drama dash of inspiration intriguing title, cover and blurb
Drizzle inspiration on all pages. Mix all data and especially dry ingredients in computerised container. Keep for an appropriate time. Heat emotions or ice over disputes. For special occasions, decorate and display at reunion, anniversary or family gathering.
Inside History | Jan-Feb 2012 |
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