Let Me Tell You About Me: Chapter 9 Review: Biography and Memoir

Before reading this chapter, I used often confused an autobiography for a 'memoir'.  Though this chapter concentrates on defining 'biography' and 'memoir', I feel that including the term 'autobiography' is beneficial to teachers and students alike because it falls under the same umbrella.

The text defines 'biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs are narratives' (Galda 280).  I believe that it is because of this that many people, as well as myself, became confused.  Autobiographies and memoirs are similar in that they are written by the main character themselves.  Biographies and autobiographies are mainly concerned and filled with facts, whereas memoirs are that person's interpretation of their life events.

Before reading this chapter I did not know how to tell the quality of a memoir.  I figured that the base of it was left to the reader themselves, for it is someone's interpretation.  After reading, here are the characteristics of a good memoir:
1. Good characterization
2. Good presentation of plot and setting
3. Clear style of writing
4. Unifying theme
5. Quality of illustrations

All references are from: Galda, L., & Cullinan, B. E. (2006). Literature and the child. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/Thomson Learning. 

Non-fiction can be shown throughout many different sub genres.  It can be difficult to decide what works are quality non-fiction, as opposed to works that may not be as valuable.  It is important that we give our students a vast selection of the different sub genres on non-fiction.  A friend and classmate's blog "A Child's Adventure Through Reading" gives a concise table that can be used to find and evaluate non-fiction works.  I know I have used it when adding to my library.  Check it out!