In *Permission* by Elissa Altman delivers a deeply moving and necessary exploration of the emotional and ethical complexities of storytelling. With the precision of a seasoned memoirist and the warmth of a trusted mentor, Altman invites writers both aspiring and experienced to confront one of the most paralyzing barriers in the creative process: understanding the journey of writing than the end of it.

Every writer, at some point, faces the daunting question of whether they have the right to tell their story. Through personal insight and years of teaching experience, Altman delves into the fear, shame, and societal constraints that silence so many voices before they ever reach the page. Her approach is both practical and deeply compassionate, providing not only the encouragement to write but also the tools to navigate the emotional and ethical responsibilities that come with storytelling.

The pacing of *Permission* is deliberate and reflective, mirroring the process of self-discovery that memoir writing demands. Rather than rushing through instructions or quick fixes, Altman guides readers with a steady hand, allowing them to sit with the discomfort of their own doubts and fears. This measured approach makes the book not only instructive but also profoundly affirming and it respects the reader’s personal journey as much as it does the craft of writing itself.

Altman’s prose is lyrical yet clear, effortlessly blending memoir with practical advice. Her writing has an intimate quality, as if she is speaking directly to the reader, urging them forward with every page. She does not sugarcoat the struggles of writing, nor does she minimize the risks of telling the stories we are often warned against. Instead, she offers a path through the uncertainty, reminding writers that their stories matter, not despite the resistance they face, but because of it.

*Permission* is more than a guide to memoir writing; it is a manifesto for creative courage. It challenges writers to embrace their truths and to understand that storytelling is not just an act of self-expression but of self-liberation. For anyone who has ever hesitated to put their story into words, this book is a vital companion, one that doesn’t just give permission, but demands it.

Elissa Altman has written an open honest guide to memoir writer.Her personal story of being cut off by her family due to sharing a personal family story in a previous book.Elissa shares advice to guide you through your own memoir writing.in a guide that will enhance your own writing.#netgalley #godine

I have been a fan of Elissa Altman’s since reading her first memoir, Poor Man’s Feast. I always seek out her writing, be it her books, essays, or Substack articles, so I was thrilled to be able to read an ARC copy of her soon-to-be-released memoir, Permission: the New Memoirist and the Courage to Create, to be published in early March.

Part memoir and part loving encouragement, Permission is a powerful, insightful, gift to writers and, in fact, to all creative souls merely trying to carve out time to practice their art. The writing is sensitive, deeply-personal, and inspiring. I appreciate Elissa’s willingness to share her own tender experience, both in her teaching workshops and in her own memoirs.

I would have to say that memoirists . . . are the most obvious audience for this book. But Elissa’s words reach far beyond that particular group of artists to serve anyone trying to live a creative life. I am not a memoirist myself, although I do a fair amount of writing. I’m also a garden designer, a watercolorist, and a mixed media artist. I found many, many nuggets of practical advice and encouragement for giving myself permission to step into my personal brand of creative life right there, within the pages of this gem of a book. Some sections of the book resonated with me (as a non-memoirist) more than others, but I found relatable advice and practical tips throughout. In fact, I’m looking forward to picking up a copy of this book when it’s published so I can highlight and write in the margins to my heart's content.

Additionally, the cover is gorgeous.

Thank you to NetGalley and Godine for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The book will be published on March 11, 2025.

4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.

This was an interesting perspective on writing, and specifically writing autobiography. I’m not sure if I agree with everything being presented, but it was an engaging read overall.

What a great book for writers, and people who aspire to write. "Permission" is a rich and multilayered text for writing. "Permission" by Elissa Altman does not focus on giving the reader tools or advice for the mechanics of writing, but rather, the author shares her own lived experience in writing her memoir, and the painful process that ensued. Highly recommended. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. Pub Date: March 11, 2025.

#Permission

Wonderful storytelling. ? If you are an aspiring writer I would recommend. Heartfelt and a wonderful journey to share.

"Permission" by Elissa Altman is much more than just a memoir; it's a profound reflection on the writing journey itself. The book captures the struggles, triumphs, and emotional complexities of writing a personal story that may not be universally accepted—whether or not permission is granted to share it. Altman weaves her own narrative with the challenges she faced in writing her memoir and the painful consequences, particularly the rift it caused with her family.

What makes this book so compelling is its layered exploration of the craft of writing. Altman does not just tell her story; she invites readers, especially creatives, to embark on their own journey. She encourages us to confront our personal histories, to dive deep into our own truths, and to honor the writing process with the respect it deserves. This book is a permission slip for anyone who has ever struggled to share their story—both personally and professionally.

Through heartfelt anecdotes and the stories of other authors who have faced similar familial challenges, Altman provides a roadmap for finding the courage to write the stories we need to tell, even when they come at a personal cost. "Permission" is a beautifully layered, raw, and intimate look at the memoir-writing process and the emotional toll that often comes with it.

If you're a writer, a creative, or simply someone interested in the intersection of personal history and the craft of storytelling, this is a must-read.

Giving it decent 3 ⭐.