in a book deal to be considered successful. What really matters is the insight you gain

along the way. You will need Memories Notes Theme Conversations with loved ones and honesty.

Step 1. Jot down the memories that remain most vivid in your mind -- even if they don't

seem significant. Chances are if you've remembered them all this time, they are the memories

that are most meaningful to you. Step 2. Review your notes to see if there is a theme to your

memories. Many autobiographies have one. Step 3. Figure out how you want to organize your

story. You don't have to start at the beginning; you launch the book with a defining event,

or even start with the present, and then go back in time. Or organize your life story

according to themes. Step 4. Talk to friends and family members to fill in memory gaps

and to gain different perspectives on your experiences. Be aware that the stories you

include about others could adversely affect your relationship with them. Consider changing

their names to protect their identities. Step 5. Once you start writing, write descriptively.

Don't just chronicle the major events in your life; transport the reader with vivid accounts

of how everything looked, smelled, felt, and sounded. Include dialogue: Snippets of conversations

can really make memories come alive. Step 6. Above all, be honest. An autobiography

won't ring true to your readers -- or be cathartic for you -- if you don't bare your soul. Did

you know Actress Drew Barrymore wrote her autobiography, Little Girl Lost, when she

was 14.