How Writing a Memoir is Like a Long Distance Hike: Books and Setting Records with Grit Lit Featured Author Heather Anderson
“The things that are difficult to think about or to remember or to process or to write about and share… It’s not all easy, fluffy, and light, if you’re writing a true and honest memoir.” – Heather Anderson
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Heather Anderson has hiked over 50,000 miles — including completing the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail multiple times, and often faster than anyone before her. Despite a non-athletic background, Heather found hiking as an adult, which filled a significant hole in her life. Through her time outdoors, Heather’s found purpose, wholeness, and healing. Her goal is to encourage others to “Dream Big, Be Courageous.”
In this Grit Lit author episode of See Her Outside, Heather shares why writing a memoir could feel as vulnerable and difficult as hiking alone for months. We talk about the mindset needed to write about your life (especially when it doesn’t follow a classic narrative arc), the challenges of maintaining a public presence online, and her tips for aspiring authors.
Heather and Angie talked about:
Heather’s early book and outdoor experiences (personal pan pizzas anyone?)
The challenges of writing memoirs
Self-identity after setting trail records
The impact of social media on authors
Balancing media consumption and writing
Tips for aspiring authors
Find Heather on Instagram or explore her website. Make sure to read Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home.
Love adventure books like Heather’s? Grit Lit is our quarterly subscription box meets book club, celebrating women and adventure.
Members get a box every quarter full of woman-created goodies, including a nature-inspired book.
Interested in becoming a part of Grit Lit? Join and get the upcoming box, plus a welcome box! It’s a great gift for a friend, too.
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