Memoir Writing Workshop with Herta Feely | Books on Third

Join us for a two-day memoir writing workshop with author, developmental editor, and writing coach Herta Feely, designed to help writers shape personal stories with clarity, depth, and emotional resonance. Workshop price includes coffee and pastries. Whether you’re just beginning to explore memoir or already working on personal writing, this interactive workshop will guide participants through the essential elements of crafting compelling life stories. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience as a developmental editor, ghostwriter, and writing coach, Herta will share practical tools for transforming lived experiences into meaningful narrative. Through guided prompts, discussion, and focused writing time, participants will explore how to identify the heart of their story, develop voice and structure, and navigate the emotional terrain of writing about real life. Herta’s compassionate and strategic editorial approach helps writers move past uncertainty and find the deeper themes that give memoir its power. This workshop is designed to be welcoming to writers at all stages—whether you’re exploring a memory, shaping a larger memoir project, or simply curious about the art of writing personal narrative. About the Instructor: Herta Feely Herta Feely is the award-winning author of Saving Phoebe Murrow and the founder of Chrysalis Editorial, where she has spent nearly two decades helping writers bring their stories to life. As a developmental editor, writing coach, and ghostwriter, she specializes in memoir and fiction with emotional and cultural depth. Before founding Chrysalis Editorial in 2007, Herta worked as a reporter, press secretary, public relations consultant, and co-founder of the National Safe Kids Campaign (now Safe Kids Worldwide). She holds a BA in Latin American History and a graduate degree in journalism from UC Berkeley, as well as a Master of Arts in Writing from Johns Hopkins University. Over the years, she has worked with hundreds of writers, helping them shape manuscripts, refine proposals, and navigate the path to publication. Writers who collaborate with Herta value her editorial precision, international perspective, and ability to balance rigorous storytelling structure with each writer’s authentic voice. Herta especially enjoys working with memoirists and writers exploring identity, culture, and life across borders. Reserve: This is a two-day workshop, and participants are encouraged to attend both sessions to gain the full benefit of the experience.