NYC Metro Chapter Event: Finding Work in the Family History Genre

The Family History genre is an exciting field, offering unique opportunities for freelance editors and writers. It is a vast and thriving industry driven by a seemingly insatiable consumer appetite—not simply to identify family members, but to know and understand their history, culture, and much more.

According to Forbes, genealogy is now a two-billion-dollar industry. The Boston Globe recently wrote about “America’s love of Ancestry,” noting that millions of people are longing to connect and discover their roots. In 2016, the New York Times reported on the extraordinary benefits that telling a life story can have on individuals, particularly seniors.

So, what exactly is the Family History genre? How do you navigate this wide field? What are the skills and experiences that can be an asset? This presentation will explore these questions and more. Donna Zucker, the founder of a family history-based writing business, will talk about how she found her niche in the industry and built it into a career. Donna will also break down the family history genre to help freelancers identify areas of potential work.

About the speaker:
For ten years, Donna Zucker has written biographical books for private clientele with her business, Story Guide. She has twenty years of experience as a senior writer, editor, and researcher for leading publishing houses, including Time Inc., Condé Nast, and Scholastic. Her writing has been featured in magazines, books, and on radio. She teaches workshops and lectures on memoir, biography, and family history. She has a decade of experience working in the nonprofit sector and a passion for the arts rooted in her classical training as a pianist. Donna has also traveled extensively, experiencing firsthand the power of storytelling in cultures around the world.