How We Write Books for People Who Can’t Tell Their Own Story

How We Write Books for People Who Can’t Tell Their Own Story

Everyone has a story, but not everyone can tell it. Whether it’s because of a language barrier; a disability like aphasia; dementia; shyness; or even because they’re no longer with us, some of the most important voices in our lives face challenges when it comes to sharing their story. And at No Story Lost, we believe those stories deserve to be captured too.

We’ve worked with families in many of these circumstances, and while the process may be different, the end result is always the same: a beautifully crafted book that honors and celebrates a life.

Here are some of the ways we help when the storyteller can’t speak for themselves.

Using Existing Materials

Sometimes, there’s gold already sitting around—old letters, emails, videos, or even voice messages. If your loved one has shared stories in the past through writing or audio, we can help weave those memories into a compelling narrative. We’ve crafted entire chapters based on a series of handwritten letters, or even woven someone’s personality through a few short home videos. These existing materials are priceless when words can no longer be spoken.

Involving Family and Friends

For some, like those with aphasia or dementia, a little extra help is needed to guide the process. We’ve seen success by having supportive family members join in on the interviews. A spouse, sibling, or child can help interpret gestures, fill in memory gaps, or gently remind the storyteller of moments they may have forgotten. Their involvement not only helps the interview flow but also adds a layer of richness, as memories are often shared in the context of relationships.

Another approach we’ve found powerful is gathering stories from friends or relatives who know your loved one well. A sibling may recall mischievous childhood adventures, while a best friend could highlight moments of triumph or heartache. By interviewing those close to your loved one, we can build a complete picture of their life, even when they can’t tell every story themselves.

Recording Family Conversations

Some families may feel more comfortable chatting amongst themselves, especially if a stranger asking questions feels too formal or intrusive. That’s where the power of a simple family conversation can come in. You can record audio of these casual chats—perhaps while flipping through old photo albums or reminiscing around the dinner table—and send us those files. We’ll use them to construct a narrative that feels natural, personal, and true to your loved one’s voice.

Collecting Audio or Video from the Past

If your loved one can no longer tell their story, looking into the archives of their life can be a treasure trove of memories. Gather voicemail messages, old phone recordings, speeches they might’ve given, or any video footage from family events. These small snippets of someone’s personality can breathe life into their book. We’ve transformed everything from voicemail messages to 8mm home movies into priceless memories that tell a fuller story.

Gathering Group Interviews

Sometimes, the best way to honor someone’s life is through a collective lens. We’ve worked with families who organize group interviews—a roundtable-style chat where siblings, cousins, and close friends gather to swap stories. These group sessions can be lively and spontaneous, sparking memories that might not come out in a one-on-one interview. Not only does this create a more dynamic narrative, but it also brings out the layers of your loved one’s life through multiple perspectives.

When Someone is No Longer With Us

It’s not uncommon to want to capture the story of someone who has already passed away. In these cases, we work with the memories of those left behind. By gathering recollections from family members, looking at old photos, and collecting anecdotes from friends and coworkers, we piece together a rich mosaic of their life. While they may not be able to share their voice directly, their story can still be told through the eyes of those who knew and loved them best.

Preserving Their Legacy, One Story at a Time

Even when someone can’t share their story in the traditional sense, their legacy can still live on in beautifully captured words. Whether through old letters, family recollections, or a collection of anecdotes from friends, we take what’s available and turn it into something lasting.

At No Story Lost, we believe that everyone’s story is worth telling, no matter the challenges. And we’re here to find creative solutions, to listen when others can’t speak, and to ensure that those voices—silent though they may be—are never forgotten.

If you have a loved one whose story you want to preserve, even if they can’t tell it themselves, reach out. We’re here to help find a way.

With thoughtful adaptations, collaboration, and creative solutions, we can ensure that no story is ever lost. Whether it’s capturing memories from existing audio, involving family members, or piecing together stories from different perspectives, we believe everyone’s story deserves to be told—beautifully and completely.