Ghostwriting: Your Questions Answered
BY SHARON HURLEY HALL
Many people feel they have a
story to tell or an experience to share. But time is precious
and not everyone can make the words sing on the page. But
there are people who can make the whole experience
hassle-free. A ghostwriter will do all the work while you get
all the credit. Some common questions about the ghostwriting
process are answered below.
What does a ghostwriter do?
A ghostwriter edits, writes, collaborates, and researches on
behalf of someone else who becomes their client. Many
biographies of celebrities and television personalities have
been ghostwritten.
Why do I need one?
Not everyone knows how to or has the time to turn an idea into
a book. A ghostwriter is a professional who has the time to
turn your thoughts into a polished manuscript.
How does ghostwriting work?
You give the ghostwriter your ideas; s/he tells your story.
Most people provide notes, digital recordings or audio tapes.
Some may even have drafts of chapters or the whole book and
ideas about characters and dialogue. The more information and
material you provide, the closer the final product will be to
your original idea. The ghostwriter turns your idea into
something that people will enjoy reading.
Will the ghostwriter steal
my idea?
No, that wouldn't be professional. Any ghostwriter who did
that would soon be out of a job. A reputable ghostwriter will
usually be happy to sign a non-disclosure or confidentiality
agreement.
Who gets the credit for my
finished book?
It’s your idea, so you take the credit. Many ghostwriters work
behind the scenes. Of course, in some instances, you may want
to share the credit - that's why many biographies are credited
like this: Major Celebrity with Ghostwriter or
Major Celebrity as told to Ghostwriter. But you
call the shots and can opt to take all the credit.
How much does ghostwriting
cost?
Each job is unique and that makes it hard to give more than
general guidelines. The length of time the project is likely
to take and the amount of research the ghostwriter will be
required to do will affect the final cost. Many ghostwriters
will charge a small up front fee, followed by payments at each
stage of completed work. Unless you're a major celebrity with
an iron-clad publishing contract already signed and sealed, a
ghostwriter is unlikely to work for nothing.
What does a ghostwriter's
fee cover?
It covers writing, research and any communication, but not
usually travel or accommodation.
How long will it take to
ghostwrite my material?
That depends on the material. Anywhere from 2 to 6 months is
average depending on the type of book and how much work you've
already put in. A short article may only take hours while a
longer research report may take a year. You'll be able to
discuss this once you've hired a ghostwriter.
What about publication?
Some ghostwriters help with publication as well, by sending
query letters and so on. This will probably cost you extra.
Other ghostwriters see the writing as their job and leave you
to find your own publisher. Consider which option you prefer
before signing the contract.
How do I know the
ghostwriter is experienced?
Ghostwriters generally have to keep clients' names
confidential, but you can look at other examples of their
writing. If you enjoy reading these, then chances are that
others will enjoy reading your material too.
See you in print!
Sharon Hurley Hall is a
freelance writer, ghostwriter and editor. Sharon worked in
publishing for 18 years, writing articles and editing and
designing books and magazines. She has also lectured on
journalism. For more information or to contact Sharon, visit
her
website.
 |
