You've got questions, we've got answers.

Below are answers to some of our most commonly received questions, covering everything from the interview process, book options, and pricing concerns. Don't see the answer that you're looking for? Contact us with your question, and we'll respond within 2 business days.

About the interview

How often do we meet? And what will we talk about?

Our interviewers will set up an interviewing schedule with you. Usually interviews are done once or twice a week, and about an hour long. Our interviewers will have a set of prepared questions, so just sit back, relax, and think of old times.

What are your interviewers like?

They are the best we can find. It is crucial for us to have interviewers who are comfortable and friendly so that you are at ease and open to telling your stories. Many of them have been published or have journalism experience.

What if I say something I don't want in the book?

Don't worry, this happens often. If you want something omitted from the book, just let the interviewer know before the book is printed. You will also have a chance to proofread the text and can make any changes you see fit.

How far can an interviewer travel to do an interview?

Chicago, Spain, Iceland, anywhere! We are willing to travel to record anyone's stories. However, we do ask that clients pay for any traveling expenses. If an interviewer has to travel some distance, we usually will do the interviews over a weekend.

Can you interview me and my siblings about my parents?

Of course! What a great anniversary or Christmas gift!

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About the books

What will my book be like?

Your personal history book will be exactly what you want to make. You control how many interviews we do, the breadth of your family tree and how many pictures we collect. If you have a map you would like placed in book, we can do that. If you want a DVD included, we can do that. If you have something a little out of the ordinary, send us a message and we'll see what we can do.

How do my stories become a book?

An interviewer will visit with you at your home or place of your choosing. They will have a small digital recorder that collects the stories you tell. We then transcribe those stories into text to make your story.

Do you write anything?

Usually not. The books you create are your stories as told by you. It's more interesting this way, and no one knows your story better than you.

Do you edit the stories?

Yes. It's important to us to have the text read as closely to how it's spoken, but how we speak is not necessarily how we want to read. We edit the stories for clarity and to make them flow better.

Can I make a book about someone who is deceased?

Certainly. We would then interview anyone who knew this person, and create a book based on those interviews.

Can I publish my book?

Sure! Maybe you've got the next best seller!

Why do you ask for rights to publish?

You're not the only person who thinks your stories are fantastic. We like to share some of the best stories we hear on our blog, and also in a published collection of works…with your permission, of course.

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About the prices

Can I make as many copies as I want?

Yes. The cost of our book packages includes one book, but duplicates are available at the cost listed, on average, $60 for each additional book.

Can I get more copies later on?

This depends. You can get more copies of our book packages, but duplicates of individual items typically need to be ordered all at once. If you have questions, please note it when you order your items.

Are there discounts if I want more books?

Yes. If you print over 10 you get a 10% discount on the cost of duplicate items. If you print over 20, it's a 15% discount on duplicate items. The cost for the original package or item is as listed on our packages page.

Do we pay for our book all at once?

No. Payments are done in thirds. The first is collected as a down payment, the second is required after the last interview, and the final installment is submitted before we print your piece.

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