Ghostwriter
A ghostwriter is a “pen for hire” who can turn your ideas and/or experiences into captivating text and a fascinating read, whether your book is:
- a logical presentation of information that proves a point or explains an idea
- an uplifting tale or inspiring plan for success
- a nostalgic retelling of a life story
- or any other genre
But no matter which form your book takes, a good ghostwriter will make certain that it is written in your voice and your style.
How do I know if I need a ghostwriter? Exactly what do one do?
A ghostwriter ensures that your completed manuscript is written in a style appropriate to its subject and contains all of the material desired by the client. The ghostwriter may sit down with you to create the book from scratch. Or, the ghostwriter may do all of the conceptualizing and writing, while you simply provide some initial ideas and information. Or the ghostwriter may work from material that’s prepared, turning a written or dictated first draft into a polished book.
Who owns my book?
In most cases, you do. The ghostwriter is usually paid a flat fee and does not own a “piece” of the book. However, when working with celebrities or other VIPs whose books show promise of earning substantial royalties, a ghostwriter may agree to accept a lesser upfront fee in exchange for partial ownership of the book.
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.
Is the ghostwriter allowed to tell people that he/she wrote my book?
That depends on your agreement. You may agree that your book can be listed on the ghostwriter’s website and resume as a ghostwritten project. Or you may stipulate that it can only be listed as “edited,” not “ghostwritten.” Or you may request complete confidentiality, which mean the ghostwriter cannot mention your book at all.
What type of books do ghostwriters write?
All types, including business books, memoirs, health books, inspirational books, history books and works of fiction.
Can a ghostwriter really be qualified to write on more than one topic?
Yes. Remember, the ghost is an expert at converting information and ideas into a book; he/she doesn’t have to be an expert in the particular topic. The ghostwriter’s expertise is the ability to understand material and explain it clearly to the average person.
How are book ghostwriters paid?
They are almost always paid a flat fee for their work. Experienced ghostwriters rarely work “on spec,” writing your book without charging you an upfront fee 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 with an incredibly “hot” topic may not become a bestseller or earn a lot of money.
How do I find the right ghostwriter?
If you need a ghostwriter, simply finding one is easy thanks to the Internet – but finding the one that’s right for you will take more effort. The best approach is to compile a list of experienced ghostwriters who can handle the kind of book you want to write, with fees that are within in your range. Then, talk to each one. Choose the one you feel most comfortable with, the person who has the personal characteristics that are most important to you. For example, you might want someone who is sympathetic and empathetic, has a good sense of humor, appears professional and well-organized, and so on. Most importantly, you need to feel that you can trust this person to help craft your message to the world.
Do I need a ghostwriter who lives nearby?
No, it’s not necessary to work with one who lives in your city. I’m based in Los Angeles, California and have worked with people and companies across the U.S. and around the world. Thanks to the telephone, email and Skype, you can search the world for just the right ghostwriter.
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 or had help. 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 coauthor; if not, he’s the ghostwriter.
Should I search for a “ghostwriter” or “ghost writer,” one word or two?
In the United States we typically spell “ghostwriter” as one word, while other English-speaking countries use two words: “ghost writer.” Some firms will hedge their bets, putting both “ghostwriter” and “ghost writer” on their sites.
How do I know if I need a ghostwriter?
If you don’t have 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 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 program to present; 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.
