For thirty years, Mary Karr has honed her craft, teaching award-winning writing classes at Syracuse and penning celebrated memoirs. In The Art of Memoir, she distills decades of expertise as a writer, professor, and seeker into an insightful and irreverent guide to the genre.
Drawing on her personal experiences as a “black belt sinner,” recovered alcoholic, and spiritual explorer, Karr explores the mechanics of memoir with unparalleled candor. Anchored by excerpts from iconic works and stories from fellow writers, she offers practical advice alongside poignant reflections on memory, identity, and the healing power of storytelling.
Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a devoted reader, The Art of Memoir unveils the transformative magic of confronting the past—and creating art from life’s truths.