Have you ever felt overwhelmed trying to turn your family research into a compelling story? I’ve been there. As a genealogist, I’m no stranger to names, dates, and documents—but transforming that into a story that breathes, moves, and resonates? That takes a different kind of skill.
That’s why I enrolled in Chronicle Lab, an online course created by writer and educator Denyse Allen, designed to help family historians craft powerful family stories using the help of artificial intelligence. This course has been a game-changer in the way I approach writing—and in how I’m telling the story of one remarkable woman: Jane Ann Stuart.
Meet Jane Ann Stuart
Jane Ann’s story is the one I chose to focus on during Chronicle Lab as I write a children’s picture book for my grandkids. Jane Ann was born in Scotland in 1824, orphaned at age seven, and disowned by her relatives after she joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a young woman. In 1856, she bravely crossed the Atlantic Ocean and joined the Willie Handcart Company, enduring one of the most harrowing pioneer journeys in American history.
She wasn’t just crossing oceans and plains to reach Zion—she was crossing emotional chasms. Her journey was one of faith, heartbreak, grit, and unimaginable perseverance. And yet, for all her trials, she left behind a legacy that echoes through generations. Through every scene I write, I see her strength and sorrow—and I want others, especially my grandchildren, to feel that same courage and connection.
What Chronicle Lab Teaches
Led by Denyse Allen, Chronicle Lab blends storytelling techniques with modern tools. It’s not about writing for perfection—it’s about writing with heart. The course teaches you how to:
- Build a strong emotional arc from your ancestor’s life
- Craft scenes instead of summaries
- Use AI tools to support—not replace—your voice
Each module helps you to delve deeper: into your ancestors’ worlds, into your own voice as a writer, and into the possibilities of what your story can become. What I love most is the focus on emotional truth. It’s not just about historical accuracy—it’s about legacy, resilience, and connection. And surprisingly, AI helps with that.
AI as a Writing Partner
I’ll admit—I was skeptical at first. I thought AI might dilute my voice or overtake my ideas. But instead, it is a helpful writing partner. Not a crutch, not a shortcut—a powerful tool to help shape what I already want to say. AI tools help me:
- Brainstorm scenes and dialogue
- Smooth transitions
- Add historical context and depth
- Rephrase or restructure when I get stuck
AI helps me write better. It supports my vision and fills in the gaps when I need a nudge. As Denyse says, “AI is your story assistant, not your ghostwriter!” That perspective has shifted everything for me. The creative process has become more fluid, less intimidating—and even exciting and fun.
What I’ve Gained (So Far)
I’m still working on Jane Ann’s story, but already I’ve learned:
- How to use Denyse’s STORI system and her brilliant AI prompts
- How AI can accelerate the creative process and spark exciting ideas without taking over
- How AI is vital for organizing, outlining, and keeping track of all the facts
More than anything, I’ve learned that you don’t need a perfect draft to start. You just need a willingness to explore, a desire to preserve your family’s legacy, and the right tools to help along the way.
I joined this course hoping to write something meaningful. I’m leaving with the tools—and confidence—to do that again and again.
Want to Learn More?
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing your family history but didn’t know where to start, I highly recommend checking out Chronicle Lab on Skool. You can also get a taste of Denyse’s teaching style by viewing her YouTube Playlist.
You don’t need to be a novelist. You just need a story that matters—and a willingness to tell it.