Classic Stories handles every aspect of your book—from the first interview to the finished volume. You bring your stories, photos, and any useful background information. We do the rest.
“The team at Classic Stories worked very flexibly with my client. Their organization of the memoir, additional research into details that added more dimension to the story, and quality writing style helped deliver an exceptional book. They are quality professionals whom I would highly recommend for anyone who embarks on this important legacy journey.”
We come to you and work at your pace. The four phases below describe how our projects unfold, but within that structure, we tailor everything to you. During this process, Classic Stories captures your underlying decisions, emotions, relationships, and perspectives that give your life meaning.
We collect and digitize any useful information you have (photos, letters, business documents, and so on). When appropriate, we also conduct independent research, including historical and genealogical research to deepen and enrich your story.
We conduct, record, and transcribe in-depth, face-to-face interviews in your home or office, at your convenience. Most clients find these sessions the most enjoyable part of the process. We come prepared, listen actively, and ask insightful questions. If you prefer, we will provide a list of questions and topics prior to each interview.
We can also conduct interviews with your colleagues, key customers, family members, and friends, arranging each conversation by phone or video call.
Throughout the process, we organize the material chronologically by topic.
We outline each chapter of the entire book for your review and feedback. The outline reveals the story arc, structure, and emphasis of your book and ensures your book reflects the story you want to tell.
Next, we develop and share the opening chapter, giving you the opportunity to respond to the voice, tone, and style.
Once aligned, we will create the remainder of the manuscript and send you two or more chapters at a time for your review and feedback. We will collaborate on revisions until the manuscript reflects your intent.
We will consult with you about colors, photos, and other images and prepare several dust jacket designs for your review.
We collaborate on all visual elements, from typography to image placement, so you can see precisely how your finished book will appear in print.
Once you are happy with the dust jacket and book design, we will publish hardcover copies and optionally leatherbound books and audiobooks.
“My sisters and I wanted to preserve the story of our father Arthur Winn by producing a book about his life and accomplishments. Josh Sklare and his team at Classic Stories gave us more than we ever expected. In addition to spending countless hours interviewing my dad, as well as all of the key people in his life and business, they conducted extensive genealogical and historical research which helped to fully flesh out the history. The end result is a beautifully detailed book worthy of my father and enjoyed by all of his family, friends, and colleagues.”
son of Authur Winn, Doing Well by Doing Good
Featured Book Gerry Shreiber, founder, former president, CEO, and chairman of J & J Snack Foods Corporation, knows that you win the game by keeping a close eye on the details, working hard, and dreaming big. In 1971, he bought a bankrupt ... soft pretzel bakery for $72,100—a large sum of money for him at the time—and turned the company into a billion-dollar brand. But Gerry’s life and accomplishments transcend the twisted salty treat and the world of snack foods. His many passions—animal welfare, higher education, and the State of Israel—have translated into transformative gifts, which have bettered the lives of both people and pets. Read More
