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Digital / Memoir and storytelling services

Memorygram Review: How the Legacy Book Service Works, What It Costs and How It Compares With Storyworth

A service that sends weekly questions and turns the answers into a hardcover life-story book with voice QR codes. Thoughtful and well reviewed, but extras add up and printed books are non-refundable.

Portrait of Ryan Mitchell

By , Consumer Technology Writer at Top10Gadgets

Updated 30 min readHow we test

Guided life-story book service

Quick answer

Yes, if you want to capture a parent's or grandparent's life story in their own words and voice, especially if they would rather talk on the phone than type. Memorygram sends weekly questions, turns answers into a large, full-colour hardcover with voice QR codes, charges once rather than by subscription, and is well reviewed.

Red Memorygram hardcover book titled Stories of Our Life with a couple's photo on the cover
A finished Memorygram legacy book. Image: Memorygram.

Score 6.7/10$123.50 at Memorygram

Check price at Memorygram (opens Memorygram in a new tab)

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6.7Score out of 10
Best for
Families who want to capture a parent's or grandparent's life story in their own words
Not for
Anyone who wants a professionally ghost-written biography; Memorygram's standard book is in the storyteller's own words

We may earn a commission if you buy through our links.

On this page · 14 sections
  1. 01Our verdict
  2. 02The short version
  3. 03Pros & cons
  4. 04How it works
  5. 05Who it's for
  6. 06How much does Memorygram cost, and what's included?
  7. 07How well does Memorygram work?
  8. 08Are Memorygram's claims true?
  9. 09Is Memorygram better than Storyworth or recording stories yourself?
  10. 10Is Memorygram legit, and what should you check before buying?
  11. 11What do owners say, and how did we score Memorygram?
  12. 12How to use Memorygram for the best results
  13. 13What else do people ask about memoir services?
  14. 14Frequently asked questions

Our verdict

Yes, if you want to capture a parent's or grandparent's life story in their own words and voice, especially if they would rather talk on the phone than type. Memorygram sends weekly questions, turns answers into a large, full-colour hardcover with voice QR codes, charges once rather than by subscription, and is well reviewed. But extras add up, the digital copy is described inconsistently, and printed books cannot be refunded. Memorygram scores 6.7 out of 10, held back by add-on costs and a few overstated claims.

The short version

  • A guided memoir service from Austin, Texas.
  • Weekly questions by email, text or automated phone call; answers by typing, voice or phone.
  • 8.5 x 11 inch full-colour hardcover, up to about 450 pages, with QR codes that play recordings.
  • Base Legacy Book option listed at $123.50 in the store data on 4 October 2026.
  • Extras: $50 per extra storyteller, extra books $77 to $89, digital copy priced in the FAQ at $19.99.
  • One-time fee, no subscription.
  • Refunds within 30 days only if nothing has been printed.
  • Trustpilot: 4.6 from 171 reviews; BBB accredited.
  • Best trait: an easy, phone-friendly way to record life stories.
  • Biggest drawback: costs and terms that need careful reading.
  • Our score: 6.7 out of 10.

Pros & cons

Memorygram is a real, well-run business offering something genuinely meaningful. The cons are about pricing clarity and refund limits.

What we like

  • Weekly questions by email, text or an automated phone call that works on any phone, even a landline
  • Large 8.5 x 11 inch full-colour hardcover, up to about 450 pages, with QR codes that play recorded voices
  • One-time purchase with no subscription or auto-billing, according to the FAQ
  • Storytellers keep ownership of their stories; editing and PDF previews before printing
  • Well reviewed: Trustpilot 4.6 from 171 reviews, BBB accredited, based in Austin, Texas

What we don't

  • Extras add up: $50 per additional storyteller, extra books at $77 to $89, and a paid digital copy
  • The page lists a downloadable PDF as included, while the FAQ prices the digital copy at $19.99 and the store's options add more
  • Refunds only within 30 days and only if no book has been printed
  • The "phone interviewer" is automated, not a person
  • A page graphic claims storytelling reduces anxiety and strengthens memory, which goes beyond what a book service can promise

Sold by Memorygram

Memorygram Legacy Book$123.50

See current price (opens Memorygram in a new tab)

How it works

Memoir services like Memorygram turn a big, daunting task, writing a life story, into small weekly steps. Each week brings one question. Over months, the answers add up to a book.

  1. Buy and set up the storyteller

    Step 1: Choose who is telling the stories, yourself or someone else, and pay once. You can start straight away or schedule the gift email for a birthday or holiday. No shipping is needed to start.

  2. Answer a question each week

    Step 2: Questions arrive by email, text message or an automated phone call. Storytellers type, speak, reply by text or talk on the phone. Recordings are transcribed, and family members can add photos and edit.

  3. Design and print the book

    Step 3: Preview the pages as a PDF, arrange the stories, choose a cover and send it to print. The printed hardcover includes QR codes that play the storyteller's voice.

  • Open Memorygram book showing a wedding photo and a page of printed story text

    Inside a finished book

  • Memorygram book page with a large QR code under a question about the happiest days of life

    A QR code that plays the storyteller's recording

Images: Memorygram

The questions

The service draws from a question library, suggests questions based on a short profile, and lets you write your own. Examples on the page include "What lesson did your parents teach that you still live by?" and "What advice would you give your younger self?" A family member can choose questions for the storyteller, such as a daughter choosing questions for her father.

Four ways to answer

Storytellers can type online, use voice-to-text, reply by text message, or talk to the automated phone interviewer. The phone option works on any phone, including landlines, without internet. Transcription software removes filler words while keeping the storyteller's style, according to the page, and the original audio is saved.

The automated phone interviewer

The FAQ explains that an automated system calls once a week, asks the question in a natural voice, and adds gentle prompts to draw out more detail: what they saw, who was there, how they felt. Calls usually take 5 to 15 minutes and can run up to 30. Storytellers can ask for a different question or skip a week.

Editing and design

You can edit text, add photos, rearrange chapters, preview the book as a PDF as often as you like, choose a cover template and add a title and photo.

Scheduling the gift

Because the product is digital at the start, the gift arrives as an email invitation. You can send it immediately or schedule it for a date, with a personal message, according to the FAQ. That makes it a practical last-minute present, though the book itself arrives months later.

The year of questions

The purchase includes a year of questions. The FAQ suggests most people finish in 6 to 8 months, so a year gives breathing room for holidays, illness or busy periods.

The printed book

The book is 8.5 x 11 inches, full colour inside and out, up to about 450 pages. Each story can include a QR code that plays the recording.

Why voice recordings matter

Families often say the thing they miss most about a loved one is their voice: the laugh, the accent, the way they told a particular story. Text captures memories; audio captures the person. Saving recordings, and linking them in the printed book, means grandchildren and great-grandchildren can hear the storyteller long after they are gone. That is a genuine advantage of services that keep audio.

How QR codes work in a book

A QR code is a printed square pattern that a phone camera can scan to open a web link. In a Memorygram book, scanning a code opens the recording of that story. That depends on the recordings staying online. Ask how long recordings are hosted, and download the audio files for safekeeping, which the page says you can do.

Questions that work well

The best prompts are specific and open-ended. "Tell me about your first job" usually produces more than "Did you like work?". Questions about places, people, food, music, holidays and turning points draw out stories. Memorygram's library and the ability to write your own help here.

Who it's for

Memorygram suits families who want to preserve an older relative's memories before it is too late, older people who want to leave their story for children and grandchildren, and couples or groups who want a shared book. The phone option makes it particularly suitable for people who are not comfortable with computers.

  • Older woman laughing while talking on a cordless phone at a kitchen table with photo albums

    Telling stories by phone

  • Hand holding a phone showing a Memorygram question being edited with an option to add photos

    Editing a question and adding photos

Images: Memorygram

It suits people less well if they want a professional writer to shape the story, or if budget is very tight.

Why Memorygram appeals

Many people regret not asking their parents and grandparents more questions while they could. A weekly prompt makes it easy, and a beautiful book makes the result tangible. The voice QR codes add something photos and text cannot: hearing a loved one tell the story. Howie Mandel's role as brand ambassador and the no-shipping, scheduled digital delivery make it an appealing last-minute gift.

Why life stories matter to families

Oral history projects and family historians often describe the same regret: by the time younger relatives think to ask, the people with the answers are gone. Everyday details, such as childhood homes, first jobs, wartime experiences, how grandparents met, rarely make it into official records. A structured weekly question gives people a reason to share stories they might otherwise never tell, and gives families a record that grows more precious with each generation.

Why the phone matters for older people

Many older adults are comfortable talking on the phone but find websites, apps and typing frustrating. A service that simply calls them removes the biggest barrier. It also feels more like a conversation than homework, which helps people open up.

A typical journey

You buy the book as a gift for your father's birthday and schedule the invitation email. He chooses to get questions by phone. Each Sunday, the automated interviewer calls, asks a question and gently prompts him to say more. You log in, tidy the transcripts and add old photos from the family album. After seven months, you preview the PDF, choose a cover and print. When the book arrives, the family reads it together and scans the QR codes to hear his voice.

Who gets the most value

Families with an older storyteller who enjoys talking and has time to answer weekly get the most value. One testimonial describes a grandmother doing everything herself and the book bringing her to tears.

Who gets the least

People who will not keep up with weekly questions, and families who need lots of extra copies or storytellers, get the least value for money.

What it will not do

It will not write the story for you in the standard Legacy Book, fact-check memories, guarantee a finished book if the storyteller loses interest, or refund a printed book.

As a gift

Memorygram is designed as a gift for Mother's Day, Father's Day, birthdays and holidays, with scheduled delivery. It works best when someone in the family helps the storyteller with photos and editing.

Grandparents and great-grandparents

The oldest generation often has the most stories and the least time. Starting while they are well, and their memory is good, gives the best results. Short, regular calls are less tiring than long interview sessions.

Couples

The multi-storyteller option suits couples who want a joint book, each telling their side of how they met, raised a family and built a life. Each extra storyteller costs $50, according to the FAQ.

People facing illness

Some families start a legacy book after a diagnosis, to capture stories while there is time. The flexible pace and phone option suit people who tire easily. Be gentle with questions and let the storyteller lead.

Families spread across distance

Because questions arrive by phone, text or email and family members can log in from anywhere, relatives in different cities or countries can contribute photos and help edit.

  • Families who want to capture a parent's or grandparent's life story in their own words
  • Older storytellers who prefer talking on the phone to typing
  • Gift-givers looking for a meaningful, last-minute present with no shipping needed to start

Who should skip it

  • Anyone who wants a professionally ghost-written biography; Memorygram's standard book is in the storyteller's own words
  • People who need a free or very cheap option; a printed photo book or recordings on a phone cost less
  • Buyers who might change their mind after printing, as printed books cannot be returned
  • Families who want several storytellers without paying extra per person

How much does Memorygram cost, and what's included?

Memorygram's Legacy Book costs $123.50 as a one-time purchase, with no recurring fees, according to the FAQ. It includes a year of weekly questions, unlimited stories, answers by typing, voice, text or an automated phone call, and one 8.5 by 11 inch full-colour hardcover with QR codes linking to voice recordings. Extras add up: $50 per additional storyteller and $77 to $89 per extra book.

According to the FAQ, a purchase includes one 8.5 x 11 inch full-colour hardcover book, unlimited stories, a QR code linking to voice recordings, a year of questions, unlimited sharing, writing or voice recording, a downloadable PDF e-book and no recurring fees.

Comedian Howie Mandel seated at a table with Memorygram books in front of him
Brand ambassador Howie Mandel with Memorygram books. Image: Memorygram

Specifications

ItemDetail
TypeGuided memoir service with printed hardcover
Book8.5 x 11 in, full colour, up to about 450 pages
QuestionsOne a week for a year; library or custom
Ways to answerTyping, voice-to-text, text message, automated phone call
AudioSaved recordings, QR codes in the book
StorytellersOne included; $50 per additional storyteller
Extra books$77 each with order, $89 later
Digital copyListed as included; FAQ prices it at $19.99
LanguagesEnglish; full Spanish version available
CompanyMemorygram, Austin, Texas
Refunds30 days, if no book printed

Memorygram price

The Memorygram order page (opens Memorygram in a new tab) displayed a 20% "Howie Mandel sale" on 4 October 2026, with prices shown in our local currency. The store's USD product data listed the base Legacy Book option at $123.50, with higher prices for options that add a digital copy or an extra storyteller.

ItemPrice
Legacy Book, base option$123.50
Additional storyteller in the same book$50
Additional printed copy$77 with your order; $89 later
Digital copy$19.99 in the FAQ; store options add more

The digital copy confusion

The "what's included" list says a downloadable PDF e-book is included, but the FAQ says the digital copy costs $19.99, and the store's product options price versions with a digital copy higher than those without.

What this means for you: check at checkout whether the digital copy is included in your option, and ask support if unclear.

Is it good value?

For a single storyteller and one book, around $120 for a year of guided prompts, phone interviews, editing tools and a large hardcover is reasonable compared with similar services. Costs rise quickly if you add storytellers and several copies for siblings and grandchildren.

Cost examples

ScenarioApproximate cost
One storyteller, one bookAbout $123.50
Plus a digital copy (FAQ price)About $143.49
Plus three extra copies ordered upfrontAbout $354.50
Mum and Dad together, plus two extra copiesAbout $327.50

These use the prices listed on 4 October 2026 and exclude shipping, which the FAQ says is calculated when the book is ready, and any surcharges. Your checkout may differ.

Cost per story

A book with 50 stories works out at roughly $2.50 per story for a single copy. Spread across a family, extra copies make the per-person cost reasonable for a keepsake that will be passed down.

Who runs it

Memorygram is based in Austin, Texas, with a phone number and street address on the page. It is accredited by the Better Business Bureau, which the page highlights, and is a member of the US Chamber of Commerce. Comedian Howie Mandel is a brand ambassador.

Memorygram Legacy BookScore 6.7/10

Best for: Families who want to capture a parent's or grandparent's life story in their own words

$123.50 at Memorygram · Price checked October 4, 2026

Check price at Memorygram (opens Memorygram in a new tab)

We may earn a commission if you buy through our links.

How well does Memorygram work?

Memorygram works well for its main audience: older storytellers who would rather talk than type. Its automated phone interviewer removes technology barriers, and owners on Trustpilot describe beautiful, professional books. Most customers finish in about 6 to 8 months at one question a week. Some reviewers find the website harder for older users, so a younger family member often helps with editing and photos.

Nobody on our team has used Memorygram, so this section is based on the page, the FAQ and owner reviews.

Ease of use for older storytellers

The phone interviewer is the standout feature. Many older people find talking much easier than writing, and a landline-friendly call removes technology barriers. Some Trustpilot reviewers note the website can be harder for older users to navigate, which is why a younger family member often helps with editing.

Book quality

Owners on Trustpilot describe beautiful, professional books. The large size suits photos and makes text easy to read.

Transcription quality

Automated transcription is generally good for clear speech but can stumble on accents, names, places and background noise. The FAQ says you can edit transcripts, and the original audio is always kept. Budget time to check names and dates, which matter most in a family history.

Completion

Like any weekly programme, the hardest part is keeping going. The FAQ says most customers finish in 6 to 8 months. Gentle reminders and family involvement help.

Photos and layout

Photos bring stories to life, and the page encourages adding them. The book's large format gives photos room. Scan old prints at good resolution, and crop or straighten them before uploading. Our iMemories review covers professional scanning if you have many old photos or slides.

Book design

Cover templates, a title and a cover photo let you personalise the book, and the inside pages follow Memorygram's layout. People wanting full control over page design may prefer a photo-book service, but for most families the guided layout saves time.

Editing tips

Light editing works best: fix names, dates and obvious transcription errors, but keep the storyteller's phrasing and humour. Readers value hearing the person's voice in the words, and the QR codes let them hear the original.

Turnaround after printing

The FAQ recommends sending books to print about 2.5 weeks before a holiday to allow production and shipping. Plan ahead for birthdays and anniversaries.

What makes a book get finished

Families who finish tend to share a few habits: a regular call time the storyteller looks forward to, a family member who checks in and adds photos, and flexibility to skip weeks without guilt. Families who stall often wait to edit everything at the end, which becomes overwhelming. Little and often works best.

Support

Trustpilot reviewers frequently praise Memorygram's support as responsive and caring. A phone number and Austin address are listed on the page, which is reassuring for older customers who prefer to call.

What owners say about using it

The page shows 671 reviews and a testimonial about a grandmother who did everything herself. On Trustpilot, owners praise thoughtful prompts, beautiful books and responsive support. Complaints mention technical difficulties, formatting quirks, accessibility for older family members, and a surcharge for books over 300 pages that one reviewer says was not clear at purchase.

Are Memorygram's claims true?

Memorygram's core claims are accurate: it is a one-time purchase with no subscription, and it does include a phone interviewer, though that interviewer is automated rather than a person. The page lists a downloadable PDF e-book as included, which conflicts with the FAQ's $19.99 digital copy price. Claims that storytelling reduces anxiety and strengthens memory go beyond what a memoir service can show.

Memorygram graphic listing claimed benefits of storytelling such as reduced anxiety and stronger memory
The brand's storytelling benefits graphic. Image: Memorygram

"Zero recurring subscription fees"

According to the FAQ, true: it is a one-time purchase.

"Includes phone interviewer"

True, but the interviewer is automated.

"Downloadable PDF e-book" included

Conflicts with the FAQ's $19.99 digital copy price.

"Up to 450 pages"

According to the FAQ; one reviewer mentions a surcharge over 300 pages.

"The only BBB accredited memoir company" and "first and only memoir company that calls"

Unverifiable superlatives.

"Reduces anxiety, improves mental focus and strengthens memory"

A page graphic lists these benefits of storytelling. Reminiscence can be meaningful and enjoyable, but these are health claims the service cannot promise.

"Trusted by over 100,000 families"

Unverified.

Claims scorecard

ClaimOur view
No subscriptionTrue per FAQ
Phone interviewerAutomated
PDF includedConflicts with FAQ
Up to 450 pagesPossible surcharge over 300
Only BBB memoir companyUnverifiable
Health benefitsOverstated
100,000 familiesUnverified

Is Memorygram better than Storyworth or recording stories yourself?

Memorygram and Storyworth both send weekly prompts and print a book. Memorygram emphasises a larger 8.5 by 11 inch book, phone interviews, voice QR codes and multi-storyteller books, so compare current prices and inclusions before choosing. Recording conversations on your phone is free and captures stories, but lacks structure and a printed book. A professional biographer costs much more but does the work for you.

OptionTypical costEaseResult
MemorygramAbout $123.50 plus extrasWeekly prompts, phone optionLarge hardcover with voice codes
Storyworth and similar servicesVariesWeekly email promptsPrinted book
Professional biographerMuch higherInterviews done for youWritten biography
DIY recordings on a phoneFreeRequires effortAudio files
Printed photo bookLowerSome design workPhotos with captions

Memorygram vs Storyworth

Storyworth is the best-known rival. Memorygram's own comparison pages emphasise its larger book, phone interviews and multi-storyteller books. Compare current prices, book sizes, and whether audio and extra storytellers are included.

Memorygram vs recording on your phone

You can simply sit with a relative and record conversations on a phone, for free. It lacks structure and a printed book, but the stories are captured. Many families do both.

Memorygram vs a professional biographer

Memorygram also offers a biography service, and independent biographers write polished life stories after interviews. It costs much more.

Memorygram vs a family history project

Genealogy research builds family trees from records. A legacy book captures personal memories that records do not hold: what grandma's kitchen smelled like, why grandpa left his home town. The two complement each other well.

Memorygram vs writing a memoir yourself

Some people write their own memoir from scratch, then use a self-publishing service to print it. That gives full control but takes far more time and discipline. Weekly prompts are a gentler way in.

Memorygram vs Remento and other app-based services

Several newer services also record voice answers and turn them into books. Memorygram's own comparison pages position it as a one-time purchase against subscription models. Compare total cost over the time you expect to use it, and whether audio, phone calls and extra storytellers are included.

Our iMemories review covers digitising old home movies and photos, which can feed into a Memorygram book. Our Legacy Will review looks at an online will, our Artkive review a children's artwork book service, and our ICE Box review a document case. Browse more in our digital category.

Memorygram Legacy BookScore 6.7/10

Why people buy it: Weekly questions by email, text or an automated phone call that works on any phone, even a landline

$123.50 at Memorygram · Price checked October 4, 2026

Check price at Memorygram (opens Memorygram in a new tab)

We may earn a commission if you buy through our links.

Is Memorygram legit, and what should you check before buying?

Memorygram is a well-reviewed service with a Trustpilot score of 4.6 from 171 reviews, and the storyteller keeps ownership of stories, photos and recordings. Before buying, check at checkout whether the digital copy is included, ask about surcharges for long books, and remember that refunds are only available within 30 days and only if no book has been printed. Allow several months if it is a gift.

Check what is included

The digital copy and page limits are described inconsistently.

What to do: check the options at checkout, and ask support about the PDF and any page surcharges.

Refunds

Refunds end once a book is printed.

What to do: preview the PDF carefully, check spelling of names and dates, and print only when happy.

Multiple storytellers

Each extra storyteller in the same book costs $50.

What to do: decide up front who will contribute, and add them at purchase.

Privacy

Stories, photos and recordings are personal.

What to do: read the privacy policy and choose who you share the book with. The FAQ says storytellers keep ownership.

Timing for gifts

Printing and shipping take time.

What to do: the FAQ suggests submitting books for print about 2.5 weeks before a big holiday.

International buyers

Memorygram ships internationally, with costs calculated at print time.

What to do: ask for a shipping estimate to your country before buying, and allow extra delivery time.

Shared accounts and family dynamics

Collaborative books are lovely, but families do not always agree on how stories should be told.

What to do: let the storyteller have the final say on their own stories, and agree in advance who handles editing.

Sensitive memories

Life stories can bring up painful experiences.

What to do: let storytellers skip questions freely, and talk with them about what they are comfortable sharing in a book that family will read.

Account access

If the gift-giver sets up the account, both people need access.

What to do: agree who manages the account, editing and printing, and share login details securely so the project does not stall.

Backups

Online accounts can change over time.

What to do: download the audio recordings and the PDF as you go, and keep copies in two places.

Health claims

A page graphic lists benefits such as reduced anxiety and stronger memory.

What to do: treat storytelling as an enjoyable, meaningful activity. If a relative has memory problems or low mood, talk to their doctor about appropriate support.

How to buy Memorygram the smart way

  1. Decide who will tell stories and how many copies you need, then order from the Memorygram order page (opens Memorygram in a new tab).
  2. Choose whether to add a digital copy or extra storyteller, checking the final total.
  3. Schedule the gift email for a special date if it is a present.
  4. Help the storyteller set up phone, text or email questions.
  5. Preview the book thoroughly before printing.

What do owners say, and how did we score Memorygram?

Memorygram scores 6.7 out of 10: claim accuracy 1.0, build durability 1.5, price competitiveness 1.2, usability 1.5 and owner satisfaction 1.5, each out of 2. On Trustpilot it shows 4.6 from 171 reviews, with 77% five-star and 8% one-star. Owners praise the prompts, book quality and support; complaints mention technical issues, formatting and accessibility for older users.

Reviews on the page

The page shows 671 reviews and a testimonial from a grandchild whose grandmother completed the book herself.

Trustpilot

On 4 October 2026 the Trustpilot profile for memorygram.com showed a TrustScore of 4.6 from 171 reviews: 77% five-star and 8% one-star. Praise focuses on prompts, book quality and support; complaints mention technical issues, formatting, accessibility and a page-count surcharge.

Reading the testimonials

The featured testimonial describes a grandmother doing everything herself, speaking her answers and being proud of the finished book, with the grandchild learning about her childhood, first job and how she met grandpa. It captures exactly what families hope for. Trustpilot reviews add realistic detail about technical hiccups and accessibility, alongside strong praise.

What we would test with Memorygram

If we test it ourselves, we will run a storyteller through phone interviews for several weeks, check transcription accuracy, build and print a book, and compare it with a rival service. We will update this review with the results.

How we scored Memorygram

Every score on the site follows the five criteria on our how we test page.

CriterionScoreWhy
Claim accuracy1.0 / 2Core service accurate; PDF, superlatives and health claims overreach
Build durability1.5 / 2Large full-colour hardcover; well reviewed
Price competitiveness1.2 / 2Fair base price; extras add up
Usability1.5 / 2Phone interviews make it easy; website harder for some
Owner satisfaction1.5 / 2Trustpilot 4.6 from 171 reviews
Total6.7 / 10

The score would rise with consistent information on the digital copy and page limits, and with health claims removed.

What we did, and did not, do

We read the product page and FAQ, the store's product data, Memorygram's comparison pages and the Trustpilot profile, all on 4 October 2026. Nobody on our team has used Memorygram, and no figures here come from our own testing.

How to use Memorygram for the best results

Set up the storyteller's profile and preferred way to answer, then choose a mix of light and deeper questions to start. Agree a weekly time for phone calls, gather and scan old photos early, and review and tidy transcripts each week rather than at the end. Ask follow-up questions about sights, names and feelings, and preview the PDF regularly before printing.

  1. Set up the storyteller's profile and preferred way to answer.
  2. Choose a mix of light and deeper questions to start.
  3. Agree a weekly time for phone calls.
  4. Gather old photos early and scan them.
  5. Review and tidy transcripts each week rather than at the end.
  6. Preview the PDF regularly.
  7. Print when the storyteller is happy, and order extra copies with the first order to save.

Getting richer stories

Follow-up questions help. Ask about sights, smells, names and feelings. The phone interviewer prompts for this; family members can add their own follow-ups.

Choosing questions for a parent

When choosing questions for someone else, think about what you wish you knew: their childhood, how they met their partner, their work, their proudest moments, the hard times they came through, and the advice they would give grandchildren. Mix in questions about everyday life, like favourite meals and songs, which often produce the most vivid stories.

A starter set of questions

For the first month, choose easy, happy questions to build confidence: favourite childhood games, a best friend at school, a first car, a favourite family recipe. Save harder topics, such as losses or regrets, for later when the storyteller is comfortable.

Involving the family

Invite relatives to add photos and stories to specific chapters, which the page says is possible.

Keeping momentum

If weekly feels like too much, set questions every two weeks. If the storyteller is keen, increase frequency.

Making the most of phone calls

Ask the storyteller to sit somewhere quiet and comfortable for calls, with any photos or keepsakes nearby to jog memories. If hearing is a problem, a phone with good volume or a speakerphone helps.

Interviewing in person

The phone interviewer is convenient, but some families also sit with the storyteller and ask the week's question together, recording the answer through the website. Shared sessions can become a cherished weekly ritual, and family members can ask follow-up questions on the spot.

Handling difficult chapters

Some lives include war, illness, divorce or loss. Storytellers may want to include these or leave them out. Respect their choice, and remember that the book will be read by children and grandchildren. Writing a short note to explain gaps can help future readers.

Giving the finished book

When the book arrives, consider a small family gathering to give it, with a phone ready to scan the QR codes. Many families say hearing the recordings together, while the storyteller is present, is the most moving part. Order enough copies for each branch of the family at the same time to benefit from the lower price.

Adding to it over time

Some families keep adding stories after the first book is printed, then order an updated edition years later. Ask support how ongoing additions and reprints work after the year of questions ends, so you can plan a second volume if the storyteller wants to keep going. Many people find that once they start telling stories, more memories surface than they expected, and a second book becomes a natural next step rather than an afterthought. Ask about pricing for a second volume before you start, so the family can budget for it properly.

Preserving the book

Keep printed copies out of direct sunlight and damp. Store a digital copy and the audio files in more than one place, so a lost or damaged book can be reprinted and the recordings are never lost.

Celebrating progress

Share finished stories with the family as you go, through the sharing access included. Hearing that grandchildren loved a story motivates storytellers to keep going.

Recording tips for clear audio

For the clearest recordings, use a landline or a mobile with good signal, sit in a quiet room away from the TV, and speak at a normal pace. Clear audio means better transcripts and better QR recordings for the family.

Troubleshooting

ProblemLikely causeWhat to try
Storyteller stops answeringFatigue or difficult questionsChange questions; pause; involve family
Transcription errorsAccents or noiseEdit text; audio is kept
Website hard to useOlder userA family member manages editing
Book too longMany photosCheck page surcharge; trim
Gift delayedPrinting timeSubmit early before holidays

Memorygram Legacy BookScore 6.7/10

Before you buy: Check the final price, shipping and return terms at checkout.

$123.50 at Memorygram · Price checked October 4, 2026

Check price at Memorygram (opens Memorygram in a new tab)

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What else do people ask about memoir services?

Most questions are about ownership, flexibility and language. With Memorygram, the storyteller keeps ownership of stories, photos and recordings, according to the FAQ. You can choose yourself as the storyteller, and there is a full Spanish version, though voice transcription is English only. The phone interviewer is automated, and extra printed copies cost $77 with your order or $89 later.

Who owns the stories?

The FAQ says the storyteller retains ownership of stories, photos and recordings.

Can I use Memorygram for myself?

Yes. You can choose yourself as the storyteller.

Does it work in Spanish?

Yes, there is a full Spanish version. Other languages can be typed, but voice transcription is English only.

Can I share the stories online?

The purchase includes unlimited sharing access for family to read and listen.

What happens after the year of questions?

The FAQ says there is no subscription. Check how long your account stays active for editing and printing.

Can I write in a memorial book for someone who has died?

Memorygram offers tribute books separately on its site.

Is the phone interviewer a real person?

No. It is an automated system with natural-sounding prompts.

Can I order more copies later?

Yes. The FAQ says extra copies cost $77 if ordered with your purchase and $89 afterwards.

What if the storyteller dies before the book is finished?

You can still edit and print whatever stories have been recorded. Even a partial book, with recordings, is a precious keepsake.

Can children use Memorygram?

The service is designed for adults telling their life stories, but families sometimes ask children questions too. Supervise any child's use of online accounts.

How private are the stories?

The FAQ says content is stored securely and is only accessible to those you share it with, on US servers.

Can I change the cover later?

You choose the cover before printing. For later reprints, ask support whether changes are possible.

Does Memorygram work for a couple's love story?

Yes. Couples can each answer questions in one book with the additional storyteller option, often focused on how they met, their wedding and their life together.

Is Memorygram a good Mother's Day gift?

It is one of the occasions the page highlights, with scheduled delivery. Remember that the book itself takes months; the gift is the invitation to start.

Is there a time limit on finishing?

The purchase includes a year of questions. Check with support how long your account remains open for editing and printing if you need longer.

Can I use my own questions only?

Yes. The FAQ says you can write your own questions and remove or rearrange suggested ones.

What if my parent has memory loss?

Gentle, specific questions about long-ago events often work better than open-ended ones, since older memories can remain clearer. Keep sessions short, and include family members who can add context. Be patient; partial stories are still valuable.

Can I add recipes or letters?

Yes. You can write your own questions, such as "Share your favourite family recipe", and add photos of handwritten letters or recipe cards.

Can I hear the recordings without the book?

The page says recordings are saved as downloadable audio files, and family members with sharing access can listen online.

What if I lose the book?

You can order additional copies afterwards, according to the FAQ, as long as the account and stories remain available.

Can I print more than one book from the same stories?

Yes. Extra copies of the same book can be ordered at any time. For different versions, such as separate books for each child, ask support.

Is Memorygram worth it?

For families who want to capture a loved one's life story in their own words, with a phone option for less tech-savvy storytellers and a large keepsake book, it is a thoughtful choice. Check extras and printing terms before you buy.

Frequently asked questions

What is Memorygram?

Memorygram is a memoir service based in Austin, Texas. It sends weekly questions to a storyteller by email, text or automated phone call, turns the answers into chapters, and prints them in a full-colour 8.5 x 11 inch hardcover book with QR codes linking to voice recordings.

How much does Memorygram cost?

On 4 October 2026 the store's product data listed the base Legacy Book option at $123.50. Extras include $50 per additional storyteller, extra printed copies at $77 with your order or $89 later, and a digital copy priced at $19.99 in the FAQ.

Is Memorygram a subscription?

No. The FAQ says it is a one-time purchase with no auto-billing or recurring fees. The purchase includes a year of questions. Extras such as additional storytellers, extra printed books and the digital copy are charged separately, so check the total at checkout.

How does the phone feature work?

An automated phone interviewer calls the storyteller once a week, asks a question and follows up with gentle prompts. It works on any phone, including landlines, and calls can last up to 30 minutes. Stories are transcribed and saved with the audio.

How long does it take to finish a book?

Most customers finish in about 6 to 8 months at one question a week, according to the FAQ. Some finish in 2 to 3 months by answering more often. If it is a gift, allow several months before you need the finished book.

Can I get a refund?

The FAQ offers a 30-day money-back guarantee as long as no books have been printed. Printed books are custom and cannot be returned, though defects are replaced. Preview the PDF carefully and fix typos and photo placement before you approve printing.

How big is the book?

8.5 x 11 inches, full colour, up to about 450 pages or roughly 60 questions with photos. One Trustpilot reviewer mentions a surcharge for books over 300 pages. Ask support about page surcharges before ordering if you expect a long book.

How does Memorygram compare with Storyworth?

Both send weekly prompts and print a book. Memorygram emphasises a larger 8.5 x 11 inch book, phone interviews, voice QR codes and a one-time fee. Compare current prices and what each includes before choosing. Some families also record free conversations on a phone alongside either service.

We may earn a commission if you buy through our links.

Prices accurate as of October 4, 2026. Check the seller's checkout for current pricing, promotions and terms.

What we checked: No hands-on use. Inclusions, process, FAQ answers (gifting, subscriptions, phone feature, timelines, storytellers, editing, digital copy, refunds, data, rights, size, shipping, languages), testimonials and images from the Memorygram product page our link opens (checkout.memorygram.com) on 2026-10-04. Prices in USD from the store's product data the same day; the page itself displayed local-currency prices for our location. Owner sentiment from the Trustpilot profile for memorygram.com (4.6 from 171 reviews on 2026-10-04); ambassador and BBB details from Memorygram's own comparison pages.

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