Memoirs are a passion and delight for me. As a teacher, I am always excited to read and discuss the latest memoirs on the market. As a writer, I am just as keen to see what new subject areas are being covered, and what new structures and forms the writers may use. As a reader, I mostly just want to settle in and enjoy well-paced and stimulating stories.
Since obtaining my Research Masters of Arts, with an emphasis on Memoir Studies, from Mount Saint Vincent University, I have been teaching memoir writing workshops around Nova Scotia, and across Canada. I’ve taught each year since 2014 at the spectacular Thinkers Lodge, in Pugwash, Nova Scotia; recently, I have begun offering retreats at the lodge.
I’ve also taught at the Alumni Centre at the University of British Columbia, in Vancouver, BC, at the Greenwood Centre in Hudson, Quebec, as a part of their yearly literary event, StoryFest, and in June 2025, at the Murray Family Public Library and deCoste Culture Hub.In 2020, I offered an online memoir workshop for the Cape Trail Writers’ Festival.
I sometimes offer half-day sessions, but mostly full-day workshops. And I am always on the lookout for another inspiring venue at which to teach.
Perhaps you have just such a venue in your community …. let me know!
In general, I offer six to eight workshops a year.
For information on upcoming workshops, please write me at: mls@marjoriesimmins.ca
Whether you are an established writer, penning a memoir for the first time, or a retired grandparent hoping to leave a legacy for your family – you can be sure that your life story has merit and interest. Sometimes the most “ordinary” lives are the most extraordinary. It’s all in the telling of the tale.
Join me for a workshop … I’d love to know more about your story.
Until then, happy writings.