Sharon DeBartolo Carmack
Author of You Can Write Your Family History

Researching and Writing Your Family History: Researching and writing your family history is a lot of work. For those with limited time, or who aren't confident in their research or writing abilities, it's beneficial to hire a professional genealogist and experienced writer to handle your legacy project. Or, if you enjoy the research, but dislike the writing part, we can work together in bringing your family history to print. Whether you want a book about just one branch of your family or an "all my ancestors" tome, you've come to the right place. Click here for "How Much Will my Project Cost?"

Writing Coach and Mentor: Would you prefer to write your own family history, but aren't sure where and how to get started? Need guidance on the type of family history you want to write, as well as someone to read and review your manuscript, advising you on every step of the way to completion? A family history writing coach and mentor can be the key to keeping you motivated and on track with your writing project. This service assists you through all phases of your writing project: research advising, consultations (by phone or e-mail), outlining, content editing of your manuscript, copy editing, and proofreading the final page proofs.

Content Editing: Have your family history manuscript reviewed for proper nonfiction writing techniques, organization, and genealogical and historical content. This can be done as you write your family history, submitting two to three chapters at a time, or when you have the manuscript completed. A double-spaced paper copy is required.

Copy Editing: Have your family history manuscript edited for sentence structure, grammatical problems, and punctuation. You may choose from having your manuscript copy edited electronically (Word files only) or manually (submit a double-spaced print copy). If you choose an electronic copy edit, you must know how to work the "Track Changes" feature in Microsoft Word.

Proofreading: Have the final pages (galleys/page proofs) of your family history proofread for typographical errors before you publish. Print copies only.