A book ghostwriter is a writer-for-hire who turns your ideas and/or experiences into a polished manuscript suitable for publication.
Exactly what does a ghostwriter do?
The services vary, depending on your needs. A ghostwriter can:
- Do it all – Write the entire manuscript, from beginning to end, with very little required of you. Your job is limited to providing the initial ideas and/or information, and reviewing the completed manuscript.
- Do much of the writing – Work closely with you from beginning to end, asking you to review drafts of chapters as they are written, provide additional information and input, and perhaps write small sections. This gives you an opportunity to get involved in the process.
- Work from your existing material – “Doctor” a manuscript you’ve already written or dictated, restructuring it, rewriting sections, and editing to make sure it flows and it’s “clean.”
Who gets the credit?
Only your name appears on the book. The ghostwriter is “invisible” and fades away once the work is complete. Depending on the contract, the ghostwriter may or may not receive an acknowledgement in the book, and may or may not be able to tell prospective clients that he worked on your book.
How are book ghostwriters paid?
They are almost always paid a flat fee for their work. Experienced ghostwriters rarely work “on spec,” that is, writing your book without charging you any money up front in exchange for a percentage of the royalties you anticipate earning. That is because books are always a gamble: even the most professionally-written manuscript on an incredibly “hot” topic may not become a bestseller or earn a lot of money.
What type of books do they write?
All types, including health, business, memoir, inspirational, true crime, history and novels and other fiction works.
Is using a ghostwriter cheating?
No. Readers of non-fiction books are interested in your ideas; they don’t really care if you’ve written the book by yourself. In fact, many people automatically assume that books authored by politicians, athletes, entertainers and business figures are ghostwritten.
What’s the difference between an author, writer and ghostwriter?
The author is the person whose name appears on the book. For your book, you are the author. The writer is the person who actually writes it. If that person is named on the book, he’s known as the writer; if not, he’s the ghostwriter.
What should I look for in a ghostwriter? How do I know which one to hire?
The ghostwriter’s experience and background are important, so ask about books he has ghosted (or authored or coauthored). The ghost’s style and tone are also important. For example, you may want one who can give your manuscript the hard-edged tone that an exposé needs, the empathy required for a touching memoir, or the excitement needed for an inspirational book. But most important of all is your gut feeling about the ghostwriter. You need to feel comfortable with him and confident that he can present your ideas/story in the way you envision.
Do I need a ghostwriter who lives nearby?
Unless you wish to meet with your ghostwriter in person many times, it’s not necessary to work with one who lives in your city. I’m based in Los Angeles, California and have ghosted successful books for doctors who lived across the country. Working via phone, email and even Skype is productive, although some authors prefer an initial face-to-face meeting.
Do ghostwriters get your book published?
No, that’s not typically part of the job description. Most ghostwriters can offer advice on how to publish or self-publish, but it’s only friendly advice. However, some can assist with publication: this additional service will likely be listed on their websites, and there may or may not be an extra charge for the service.
Is there a difference between a ghostwriter and a ghost writer?
No – it’s spelled ghostwriter (one word) in the U.S., and ghost writer (two words) in certain other countries. But whether ghostwriter or ghost writer, the service is the same.
How do I know if I need a ghostwriter?
If you just haven’t enough time to write your book…you need a ghostwriter.
If you have a great idea but aren’t sure how to turn it into a full-fledged better-health program and book…you need a ghostwriter.
If you’ve written or dictated a first draft but it’s not up to snuff…you need a ghostwriter.
If your writing is too technical for the layperson; if you have a wealth of knowledge and practical experience but don’t have a specific health program to present in your book; if you want to make sure your message is delivered clearly, concisely and in a manner that appeals to the reading public…you need a ghostwriter.
