Writerwerx University
How do you publish a book? One step at a time! Learn those steps (for free) at WriterwerxUniversity.c
Problem displaying Facebook posts. Backup cache in use.
What Does a Ghostwriter Do?
Ghostwriting is when a professional writer creates a manuscript for you instead of you having to write it yourself. This can be helpful when you want (or someone you know wants) to write but don’t have the physical or mental health (such as amputations or schizophrenia) to make writing reasonably straightforward. Ghostwriters can also be helpful for writing in a language that you are not a native speaker in, though a translator or a native-speaker editor may be a more affordable option (write the manuscript in your native tongue and then find a bilingual writer to translate).
A ghostwriter may produce a rough draft (less expensive) or a manuscript that is ready to be professionally edited (more expensive). Either way, the ghostwriter is simply bringing your idea into existence by putting it on the page.
Do I Have to Give the Ghostwriter Credit for the Book?
That is often how it’s done. But, this is something you have to negotiate with the professional directly. They will often (but not always) provide a discount when you contract to give them credit. This is done by adding their name to the by line. For instance, instead of
the cover of the book would read
or maybe
to denote that Kolin didn’t write the book by himself.
If you truly want to pass the work off as your own, you wouldn’t have their name anywhere on the book. The professional will likely assess additional charges for this arrangement, so be prepared for that.
Will I Owe My Ghostwriter Any Royalties?
Again, this is something you’ll negotiate with your ghostwriter before you hire them. Generally, this isn’t the case. Most ghostwriters are paid in advance for their services and do not receive any funds after the publication of the book, whether it’s a bestseller or it flops. All the remaining financial gain or loss on the project is yours.
Some clients will ask ghostwriters to work for free and then get a share of the royalties accrued. This is not an arrangement that a savvy, seasoned ghostwriter would agree too about 99% of the time. Mainly because they understand that making consistent, significant income from a single book is a long shot. Becoming a full-time indie author is a long game and one book just won’t cut it. So, to keep from turning their job into a volunteering venture, they make sure to get their funds up front and then start on the work instead of the other way around.
Where Can I Learn More About Ghostwriting and Self-Publishing?
Visit WriterwerxUniversity.com for free, self-paced, text-based lessons on just about every aspect of indie publishing.