Do you ever feel confused about the difference between an autobiography and a memoir? If yes, then you are not the only one. You see, these two words are used interchangeably, and many people don’t quite know the differences between them. It’s true that both autobiography and memoir are first-person accounts of the writer’s life, mostly telling the readers about their own life and personal experiences. However, it must be noted there are stark contrasts between them in terms of writing style, format, and voice, making these two genres different from one another.

To give you a breakdown of the differences between an autobiography and a memoir, we have listed down some main points.

Differences Between an Autobiography and a Memoir

• Autobiographies cover the entire life of the authors, while memoir focuses on a specific part of the author’s life.
• Autobiographies are generally about famous personalities, including sportsmen, celebrities, scientists, politicians, world leaders, and businessmen. On the other hand, a memoir can be about anybody! It doesn’t matter if the author is well-known or famous. 
• A general rule is that autobiographies are written in chronological order. In the case of a memoir, it often moves back and forth in time.
• Autobiographies are read by people who want to know more about the life of the author. Memoirs are read by people interested in a specific story or a subject they are drawn to.
• Autobiography lays greater emphasis on facts and history. The writing style of a memoir places more importance on the emotional experience.

Tips on Writing Autobiography and Memoir

Autobiography

• Question Yourself

This is very important. Figure out why people would be interested in reading your autobiography? What makes it stand out from the other pile of autobiographies lying on bookshelves? If you are a well-known personality, it might not be a problem. But if not, then you need to put the bits and pieces together that would make your autobiography compelling.

• Spend Time on Research

In autobiographies, facts should be double-checked. You would want to make your memories accurate because autobiographies are all based on facts. Go through old diaries, refer to your pals and family, and search for old documents to ensure you don't get facts incorrect.

Memoir 

• Pick out Your Story

Memoirs focus more on the emotional journey of the author. So, pick out a story or a theme from your life worth talking about. You can focus on your financial struggles, hardships, successes, and so much more. You just have to choose the story and writing style that resonates best with the readers.

• Emphasize the Emotions

When it comes to memories, you may want to get experimental and free-flowing. Memoir readers are interested in your emotional journey. They want to know more about a specific point in your life. So give them that! 

With everything said, let’s take a look at some of the best autobiographies and memoirs from Austin Macauley Publishers.

Bustle 

Bustle is a relentless story of Andre Holloway, a young black man who faced countless tragedies and mishaps in his life. He was shot, not once, but twice. He survived the difficult period of the 70s, all of this before the age of 18. Bustle is as raw as it can get, narrating the difficulties faced by the author and how he overcame the obstacles and fulfilled his purpose in life. Do not miss out on Bustle by Andre Holloway.

Dogs, Cats, and Me

Do you have a fondness for pets and animals? In this memoir, Kathleen Clark tells her story about the importance of cats and dogs in her life. They have been an integral part of her life for over 30 years. This heartwarming book gives us an inside look into the different personalities of pet animals. It’s a joyous and fun-filled experience shared through the eyes of a pet lover.

My Father Called Me Bobby 

My Father Called Me Bobby is an intriguing memoir on the life of Robert F. Scherma. From growing up in an Italian family in the '50s to exploring his sexual preferences a few decades later, this memoir tells it all. My Father Called Me Bobby will remind readers to live their lives to the fullest. This memoir will surely leave readers enthralled until the very last page.

String Too Short To Tie

String Too Short to Tie is the story of Dalinda and her childhood from the vintage years of the '50s and '60s. It’s a story of the intricate ties of land and family. Dalinda prepares for her 50th class reunion. Will Dalinda and her classmates have much in common after so many years? Kathleen's autobiography is about remembrance, pride, and joy. So, hop on this journey of nostalgia and intrigue. Buy this book now.

The Story of a Boy Favored By Providence

How much pain can one withstand in life? This is the story of a boy who endured more than he ever thought was possible. With his father tortured to death, he spent his entire teenage years working as a laborer for endless lonely days. Now, after years of struggle, he is a professor at a prestigious university in the USA. He tells the riveting story of his childhood in this breath-taking memoir. This is the story of Jon Huer. Grab a copy of The Story of a Boy Favored by Providence here.

Nurse Aceso in the COVID Pandemic

Nurse Aceso in the COVID Pandemic is a memoir revolving around the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020. The book documents how patients were admitted, treated and taken care of at the hospital. Acesco Hugh narrates true stories on the pandemic, giving the reader an inside look. This memoir explores the conditions, supplies, and environment where American healthcare workers spend countless days and weeks. Buy now.

They Keep Coming for Me

What was the crime of Renee Chisolm? The answer is simple: Having too much fun. The authorities targeted the author with everything they got without letting her know. In this autobiography, Renee Chisolm tells how the law enforcement agency wreaked havoc on her happy life. Why did the law agencies specifically target her? What was the motive behind it? Read this gripping autobiography to find out.

Meant for Each Other

Meant For Each Other by Lou Schulist is a story that spans 80 years. It's a story of two people, separated by 4000 miles of land and ocean. They never knew a string of seemingly random events would bring them together. This book is a symbol of love, overcoming obstacles, staying together, and never giving up. In an era where social media was non-existent, world wars were ongoing, and times were changing rapidly. It was a miracle that people overcome all odds and fell in love. Do not miss out on this book.

Like a Lotus

Like A Lotus takes us through the author’s journey of self-discovery, adventure, and freedom. Veronica Trunzo had everything needed to live a happy life; a good home, a wonderful fiancé, and a well-paying job. But none of that gave Veronica the contentment and purpose that she longed for. Following that, veronica begins a path of personal reinvigoration. From climbing peaks in Indonesia to getting lost in the depth of the Chinese countryside, she experienced it all. Read this mesmerizing autobiography now.

Getting to This Place

In this heartwarming autobiography, Helen Olson narrates how she left her hometown and moved across the country to seek refuge in nature. Helen always wanted to make sense of her past, feel content with her present, and find hope in the future. This book is more of a life guide than a full-fledge memoir as it shares intriguing facts about mother nature and human nature. Getting to this Place reveals the power of nature to heal provides enlightenment to those wanting to find a path of contentment in life. Buy now.

We hope our binge-worthy list of autobiographies and memoirs will make the whole book reading experience so much better for you. If you want to connect with us, then follow us on our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

If you are a budding writer and want your work to be published, send us your manuscript by clicking submit. You can also send it online by filling our online submission form.