Art of Memoir (Karr) - Book Reviews

Book Reviews
There’s a textbook lurking at the heart of Mary Karr’s new book about how memoirs have and should be written. But it’s a chaotic one: Ms. Karr is, by her own admission, a passionate, messy teacher..... Ms. Karr acknowledges that this book began with the teaching syllabus she uses at Syracuse University.... She has fleshed it out with analyses of some of her favorite memoirists’ work, but she can’t help being more interesting than her lesson plans. The best parts of this book are those that veer off course and find her writing about herself again,
Janet Maslin - New York Times


The Art of Memoir is a hodgepodge of a book...[that] will appeal most to those hoping to write their own memoirs.... Though Karr’s own Texan voice strains a bit in the opening pages to achieve the swagger and folksy charm she is known for, her emphasis on finding an authentic, unpretentious voice will be useful to any novice writer.... Her close readings are full of smart insights about the problems writers overcome.... The Art of Memoir is full of Karr’s usual wit, compassion and, perhaps most reassuringly, self-doubt. Her fans should be delighted—and they can’t go wrong reading the books she discusses, including her own.
Janet Spear - Washington Post


Should be required reading for anyone attempting to write a memoir, but anyone who loves literature will enjoy it too.
Wall Street Journal;


A master class on memoir, from a memoirist who pulls no punches.
Minneapolis Star Tribune


Could have been called The Art of Living.
San Francisco Chronicle


A veritable blueprint for the genre…. Lovers of the form and aspiring scribblers alike will relish this comprehensive appreciation of and guide to writing the real self.
Oprah Magazine


(Starred review.) Karr write[s] exquisitely...(and without pretense, often with raw authenticity.... The text is a must-read for memoirists, but will also appeal to memoir lovers and all who are curious about how books evolve.... Karr wisely (and quite often humorously) guid[es] readers in their understanding and experience of the art.
Publishers Weekly


(Starred review.) [A]n enlightening review of the memoir as a medium for communicating carnal, lived experiences. Fresh and heartfelt, Karr's analysis of the form illustrates its variety and depth, the significance of voice, and the perception of truth. [A]n excellent challenge for readers and writers alike. —Gricel Dominguez, Florida International Univ. Lib.
Library Journal


[A] spirited commentary about memoir, the literary form that has become synonymous with her name.... Karr's sassy Texas wit and her down-to-earth observations ...make for lively and inspiring reading. A generous and singularly insightful examination of memoir.
Kirkus Reviews