5 Best 'Dad, Tell Me Your Story' Alternatives (2026)

You've seen the "Dad, Tell Me Your Story" journals by Jeffrey Mason, and the idea is perfect: a way to finally get all those family stories written down. But a one-size-fits-all book doesn't fit every dad. Maybe yours isn't much of a writer, or you're looking for something more interactive than a simple Q&A book. That's why you're searching for a dad tell me your story alternative—an experience that feels less like homework for him and more like a meaningful connection for you both.

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Here's what we'll cover:

• A simple comparison table of the top book, app, and service alternatives.
• In-depth reviews of each option, with clear pros and cons.
• A free, step-by-step guide to creating your own DIY story journal.
• How to choose the perfect option based on your dad's personality.

Why Look for an Alternative to 'Dad, Tell Me Your Story'?

While guided journals are a great starting point, they can be limiting. The pre-set questions might not cover the unique parts of your dad's life, and the format assumes he enjoys sitting down to write out long answers.

Many people look for a tell me your story dad alternative because:

• Their dad prefers talking to writing. Many of the best stories come from conversation, not from filling out a form.
• They want a more collaborative process. Instead of just handing him a book, you want to be part of the experience.
• They want a different final product. Maybe a professionally bound book, a series of audio files, or a private family website feels more special.
• They need more flexibility. A standard journal doesn't let you add your own follow-up questions or explore unexpected stories.

The good news is, there are fantastic options out there that solve these problems, fitting every budget and personality.

Top Alternatives Compared: At a Glance

Here’s a quick breakdown of our favorite alternatives to help you see the key differences.

In-Depth Reviews of the Best Alternatives

Let's take a closer look at what makes each of these options a great choice.

1. Abrevity: The Living Biography (Best Overall)

Abrevity takes the idea of capturing a life story to a professional level. Instead of just a book of prompts, it’s a full-service experience where you conduct the conversation and Abrevity handles the transcription, writing, and editing into a comprehensive, beautifully written biography. It's the "done-for-you" solution that results in a true family heirloom. If you already have a filled-in "Dad, Tell Me Your Story" book, it can be used as input so the interviews build on what you already know and add depth.

• How it works: You and your family connect with an Abrevity team member who helps plan the project. You conduct the interviews with your dad (and other family members), then the team transcribes the conversations and crafts the stories into a compelling narrative. You review and approve everything before it's designed into a custom book. Audio is preserved, and when video is captured it can be viewed alongside the book.
• Pros:
• Professional Quality: You get a polished, well-written book, not just a collection of Q&As.
• Low Effort for Dad: He just has to show up and talk. No writing required.
• Comprehensive: Goes beyond simple prompts to capture the full context of his life.
• Includes Multiple Voices: Can easily incorporate stories and perspectives from a spouse, children, or friends.
• Cons:
• Higher Cost: This is a premium service and priced accordingly.
• Less DIY Control: You're trusting professionals with the process, which means less hands-on control over the writing itself.
• Who it's for: Families who want to create a truly exceptional, lasting legacy for a milestone birthday or anniversary and prefer to invest in a professional, stress-free process.

To see a full breakdown of options, you can view our pricing.

2. Storyworth: The Classic Story-by-Email Service

Storyworth is a popular choice because it cleverly breaks down the massive task of writing a life story into small, manageable pieces. It's a great middle-ground between a simple journal and a full biography service.

• How it works: Each week for a year, Storyworth emails your dad a story prompt you've chosen from their library (or written yourself). He replies with his story, and his answer is saved to a private online account. At the end of the year, all his stories are compiled into a beautiful hardcover book, complete with photos you can add.
• Pros:
• Easy and Consistent: The weekly email makes the process feel manageable, not overwhelming.
• Highly Personal: You can customize questions and edit stories before printing.
• Great Final Product: The hardcover book is a high-quality keepsake.
• Cons:
• Requires Email Savviness: Best for dads who are comfortable using email.
• One-Year Timeline: It takes a full year to complete the process.
• Who it's for: The dad who enjoys writing or reflecting but needs a little structure and motivation. It’s perfect for families who live far apart as a way to connect weekly.

3. Remento: The Video & Audio Story Platform

For the dad who's a natural storyteller, Remento bypasses writing altogether. This app-based platform focuses on capturing stories through recorded video and audio conversations, preserving not just the memories but the voice and personality of the storyteller.

• How it works: You use the Remento app to access hundreds of conversation prompts. You can record a conversation with your dad in person or remotely. The app saves and transcribes the recordings, making it easy to create highlight clips and share them with family.
• Pros:
• Captures His Actual Voice: Preserves the emotion and personality that text can't capture.
• Modern and Interactive: The app is easy to use and makes storytelling feel like a fun, modern activity.
• Easily Shareable: Digital clips can be instantly shared with family members anywhere.
• Cons:
• No Physical Book (by default): The final product is digital, though you could use the transcripts to create a book separately.
• Requires a Smartphone/Tablet: Both you and your dad need to be comfortable using an app.
• Who it's for: The tech-savvy dad who would rather talk for an hour than write for ten minutes. It’s an excellent choice for capturing the way he tells a story—mannerisms and all.

4. The Father's Book: A Guided Journal Alternative

If you're set on a physical journal but want a great dad tell me your story book alternative, The Father's Book is a fantastic option. It's less of a simple Q&A and more of a guided journal focused on passing down wisdom, memories, and life lessons.

• How it works: This is a beautifully designed physical journal with prompts that encourage deeper reflection. Questions are organized into chapters about his past, present, and his hopes for the future. It’s designed for him to fill out on his own time.
• Pros:
• Thought-Provoking Prompts: The questions go beyond basic life events.
• Beautiful Design: It feels like a special keepsake right from the start.
• Affordable: A very budget-friendly option.
• Cons:
• Still Requires Writing: Like the original, this is best for a dad who is willing to write.
• Less Collaborative: It’s designed more as a solo activity for him.
• Who it's for: The introspective dad who enjoys writing and would appreciate a structured way to share his thoughts on life, not just the events that happened.

The DIY Alternative: Create a Custom Story Journal

Worried that pre-made questions won't fit your dad or about the cost? The most personal and budget-friendly option is to create your own story journal. It's easier than it sounds, and the result is something truly unique.

Step 1: Choose Your Format (Notebook, Binder, Digital)

First, decide on the format. The beauty of a DIY approach is its flexibility.

What you'll need:

• A vessel: This could be a high-quality Moleskine notebook, a binder with loose-leaf pages (great for adding photos), or even a shared Google Doc.
• A good pen: If you're going analog, a nice pen makes the experience more enjoyable.
• Your questions: See our list below to get started.
• Optional: A smartphone to record audio of your conversations. You can transcribe them later.

Step 2: Gather Your Questions

The heart of your DIY journal is the questions. Mix general prompts with questions that are specific to his life, hobbies, and career. For hundreds of ideas, browse our full list of life story questions. Don't be afraid to ask about small moments—they often hold the best stories.

Start with easy, fun questions to get him comfortable, like:

• What was your first car?
• What was the best concert you ever went to?
• Tell me about your first job.

Step 3: Make it a Shared Experience

Instead of just giving him the notebook, make it a joint project. Set aside time each week to go over one or two questions together. This turns it from a task into quality time. Use his answers as a jumping-off point for deeper conversation. For more guidance, check out our tips on conducting a great interview with a family member.

How to Choose the Right Alternative for Your Dad

Still not sure which to choose? Let your dad's personality be your guide.

For the Dad Who Loves to Talk

He's a natural storyteller who can spin a yarn about anything. Writing feels like a chore.

• Top Choice: Remento. It’s built for capturing conversations and preserves his voice.
• Runner-Up: DIY Journal with Audio Recordings. Sit down with him, press record on your phone, and let him talk.

For the Dad Who Prefers to Write

He's thoughtful and enjoys putting his thoughts on paper. He might even already keep a journal.

• Top Choice: Storyworth. The weekly cadence is perfect for a writer, and the final book is a wonderful reward.
• Runner-Up: The Father's Book. A beautiful, tangible journal he can fill out at his own pace.

For the Tech-Savvy Dad

He’s comfortable with email, apps, and video calls. He might even find a physical book a bit old-fashioned.

• Top Choice: Remento. The app-based interface will feel intuitive and modern.
• Runner-Up: Storyworth. The email-based system is simple and efficient for someone who's online regularly.

For the Dad on a Budget

You want to do something meaningful without a big financial investment.

• Top Choice: DIY Journal. It's completely free and can be the most personal option of all.
• Runner-Up: The Father's Book. An affordable but thoughtful physical gift.

No matter which path you choose, the goal is the same: to honor his story and create a connection. If you're looking for other thoughtful gift ideas for dads, we have plenty of other suggestions.