Ask Jerry
Sub-Genres and Disclaimers
Asked by Glenda Zylinski on October 18, 2020
Hi, Jerry-
Your most recent Master Class with award-winning editor and writer, Lissa Johnson, ignited courage in me to dig bone-deep into the elements of my own WIP.
Skeletons in the closet, breath for dry bones, empty tombs, and the dead being raised to life.
It's all here.
I welcome your input regarding two things:
Q. As a sub-genre, which do you think works best for readers: Creative Nonfiction or Narrative Nonfiction?
(Inspirational/________Nonfiction/Magical Realism)
The front matter of the book requires a disclaimer because some names, dates, and places have been changed to protect the guilty and the innocent.
Q. Can I just say, "based on true events?"
Many thanks! 🙂
PS Nisi Dominus Frusta
Jerry's Answer
Q. As a sub-genre, which do you think works best for readers: Creative Nonfiction or Narrative Nonfiction?
I think they're one and the same--nonfiction written with fictional tools.
The front matter of the book requires a disclaimer because some names, dates, and places have been changed to protect the guilty and the innocent.
And that's all it need say: Some names, dates, and locations have been changed to protect identities.
Q. Can I just say, "based on true events?"
No, that would be for fiction. A memoir must not simply be based on true events; it must be true.