Merriam-Webster defines a memoir as follows, “a written account in which someone (such as a famous performer or politician) describes past experiences, or a written account of someone or something that is usually based on personal knowledge of the subject.” So, how does that differ from a biography or an autobiography? Once again, turning to our expert above, a biography is the story of a real person’s life written by someone other than that person,” whereas, “an autobiography is the biography of a person narrated by himself or herself.” Obviously the lines can get blurred, but quite often, an autobiography spans a person’s lifetime whereas a memoir tells a story about a certain time period in someone’s life.
Linda Kovic-Skow, author of French Illusions
Enhanced Ending For French Illusions
October 2, 2013 by Leave a Comment
I want to thank all of my readers for their reviews of French Illusions at Amazon. Although most of your comments are positive, I’ve received a consistent criticism, gulp, my abrupt ending. I didn’t get it right away. At first, I thought the reader was left with too many unanswered questions. What happens to Adam? Does Linda ever learn French? Does she ever become a flight attendant? These questions are not only understandable, there’re expected. Where to end this memoir was a difficult decision for me. After I outlined my first diary, I realized that I had too much story left in my second diary for only one book. A natural place to break the story occurs after my au pair experience.
Fun French Facts
August 15, 2013 by Leave a Comment
My first French fact is a personal favorite. The bikini was invented by two different French designers in 1946. Jacques Heim invented his suit first, calling it “l’Atome.” At about the same time, his rival, Louis Reard, created a two-piece bathing suit, the “Bikini.” Reard used skywriting over the Riviera to promote his “Bikini,” and the name stuck like glue.
Another Favorite Character and Chapter in French Illusions
July 1, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Another one of my favorite characters in French Illusions is Madame Dubois. Given her arrogant, unforgiving attitude, she is the natural protagonist in my story. As I worked my way through my diary, I recounted many heartbreaking interactions with my patron. Here is a sample of one of them:
Book Endings Can be a Challenge
June 11, 2013 by Leave a Comment
“I would love to have known more about her future successes and how long she remained in France, her friends, her French instruction, etc. I would also like to have known the outcome of her leaving. I felt like there were missing pieces. I do hope for a sequel.” -Amazon reviewer on June 3, 2013.
Rapid-Fire Questions and Answers with Linda Kovic-Skow
May 29, 2013 by 6 Comments
Favorite ice cream flavor?
Dulce de Leche – caramel ice cream swirled together with ribbons of caramel, Mmmm. It’s not French, but it’s delicious.
Early bird or night owl?
Night owl. After years of trying to change this, I’ve finally raised my hands in the air and surrendered.
Pets? Meet My Dog, Abby
May 16, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Our ten-year-old Sheltie is the baby in the family. She’s also the most spoiled. Her good looks and gentle demeanor make her irresistible to almost everyone who comes in contact with her. Affectionate and loving, especially with her family, she’ll gaze and paw at you sweetly when she wants your attention.
