The Power of Collaboration: Ghostwriters and Successful Books
Many people believe that working with a ghostwriter is unusual or rare in the publishing industry. However, the truth is that some of the most successful and influential books have been written by or in collaboration with ghostwriters. Ghostwriters are skilled professionals who help bring an author’s story, ideas, and concepts to life, crafting compelling narratives that resonate with readers.
Reasons to Work with a Ghostwriter
There are numerous reasons why an author might choose to work with a ghostwriter. Some authors have incredible stories to share but may not have the writing skills to effectively convey their message. Others may lack the time or energy to dedicate to the writing process. As Kevin Anderson, CEO of Kevin Anderson & Associates, said to the Washington Post, “The content, ideas and concepts for ghostwritten books come directly from the client. A ghostwriter is an interpreter and a translator, not an author.”
Key Takeaways
- Collaborating with a ghostwriter is more common than many people believe, and some of the most successful books have been ghostwritten.
- Ghostwriters help authors bring their stories, ideas, and concepts to life by crafting compelling narratives.
- Authors may choose to work with ghostwriters for various reasons, such as lacking writing skills or time to dedicate to the writing process.
- Notable ghostwritten books span various genres, from motivational books to memoirs and autobiographies.
Books Brought to Life by Ghostwriters
Five Notable Ghostwritten Books
To illustrate the prevalence and success of ghostwritten books, let’s explore five notable examples:
Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead
Sheryl Sandberg’s motivational book about women in the workplace was one of the runaway successes of 2013. And she didn’t write it alone: the book was written with the help of Nell Scovell, a noted television writer who also contributes to magazines like Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone.
Scratching the Horizon: A Surfing Life
Izzy Paskowitz’s memoir about leaving his medical practice behind and dedicating his life to surfing was ghostwritten by Daniel Paisner. It’s an outstanding example of the craft and expertise that a good ghostwriter brings to a project. Paisner doesn’t just tell Paskowitz’s story: he captures Paskowitz’s voice by incorporating the slang and speech patterns of surfers.
Life
A rock hero who co-founded the Rolling Stones, Keith Richards has lived a remarkable life. And when it came to putting the story of that life down on paper, he didn’t do it alone—he enlisted a ghostwriter. With the help of writer James Fox, Life became a national bestseller.
I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban
Malala Yousafzai is only a teenager, but she’s already an icon: she stood up to the Taliban and demanded that they respect girls’ right to education, and was very nearly killed for her tenacity. But she survived, and became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. Ghostwriter Christina Lamb helped Malala create the bestselling memoir that brought her story to life.
American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History
The wildly successful autobiography of U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle has been made into an Oscar nominated film. Kyle didn’t tell his story on his own: with the help of ghostwriters Scott McEwan and Jim DeFelice, he created a book that transported readers to Iraq and gave them a sense of what combat is really like.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a ghostwriter do?
A ghostwriter is a professional writer who helps an author bring their story, ideas, and concepts to life by crafting a compelling narrative. Ghostwriters work closely with authors to capture their voice and message effectively.
Is it ethical to use a ghostwriter?
Yes, using a ghostwriter is ethical as long as the author and ghostwriter are transparent about their collaboration. The author is still the originator of the content, ideas, and concepts, while the ghostwriter serves as an interpreter and translator.
How do I know if I need a ghostwriter?
You may benefit from working with a ghostwriter if you have a compelling story or message to share but lack the writing skills, time, or energy to effectively convey it. Ghostwriters can help you bring your vision to life and create a polished, publishable book.
Read our blog post, “Why Hire a Ghostwriter? To Get Your Book Finished.”
How do I choose the right ghostwriter for my project?
When selecting a ghostwriter, consider their experience, writing style, and familiarity with your genre or subject matter. Look for a ghostwriter who understands your voice and vision and has a track record of success in collaborating with authors.
How much does it cost to hire a ghostwriter?
The cost of hiring a ghostwriter varies depending on factors such as the length and complexity of your project, the ghostwriter’s experience and reputation, and the scope of services required. Some ghostwriters charge per word, while others offer package rates or hourly fees. It’s essential to discuss your budget and expectations upfront to ensure a successful collaboration.
Bring Your Book to Life with Kevin Anderson & Associates
At Kevin Anderson & Associates, our team of experienced ghostwriters is dedicated to helping authors like you bring their stories to life. We understand the power of collaboration and the importance of capturing your unique voice and message.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your publishing journey, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with our team. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your project, answer any questions you may have, and help you determine the best path forward.
You can also contact us at 1-844-997-4837 or info@kawriting.com for more information.
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Ghostwriting Services