Ghostwriting: How it Works

Ghostwriting is a collaboration between someone who wants to write a book (the author) and someone who can help them achieve that goal (the ghostwriter). People use ghostwriters for a variety of reasons - from not having enough time to write it themselves, to feeling over-faced with where to start, or just the simple fact that writing isn't their strength.

The nature of the job means that, as the customer, you can choose whether or not you want people to know you have had a guiding hand in the process. Discretion is key and nobody need ever know. On the other hand, some people prefer to let their readers know that their book has been a joint effort.  

Every project is different, but it usually begins with an initial conversation about the story itself and the main purpose of the book (i.e. to help others through sharing an experience, to boost a business, to expose a truth or as a legacy project for family and friends). The subject matter might be timely, so a tight turnaround could be in order, or a looser deadline might suit better, allowing the pieces to fall into place more organically. 

It is important to find a ghostwriter who you feel comfortable with because not only are you are placing your story in their hands, but throughout the process, there will be quite a lot of communication. Nobody wants to feel uncomfortable about picking up the telephone for the odd clarification.

Here's how 'Unbroken: The Woman who Walked Again' took shape:

Once terms and a deadline were agreed, the author (Georgina) and I met face to face and over zoom for a series of interviews. These were all recorded to keep the conversation flowing and natural. Georgina gradually shared her story and I used my journalistic skills to dig deeper, guiding her into areas she may not have originally thought about.

I then transcribed each interview for Georgina to read back and check. I also interviewed a handful of other people who were integral to her story. Older documents and photographs were unearthed and a timeline and structure were planned. I had already spoken to a publisher who was keen to work with us and guide us through the process.

Then I began writing and Georgina could relax for a while. Like any book, there were drafts and re-drafts until everybody was happy. Then the publisher made the final tweaks, set the pages and chapters, designed the cover and blurb and sent it off to the printing company. 

Some ghostwriters already have media contacts and can utilise them for promotion (like myself). Or an author may choose to employ a publicist to help with that side of things. It is generally a collaborative affair between the author, ghostwriter, publisher and publicist. Then it's all systems go.