Why write a book?
It is more common to hire a ghostwriter than you might think and it has been going on for a very long time.
It is believed that Mark Twain ghostwrote much of the memoir of Ulysses S. Grant and to this day, busy politicians, world leaders, and celebrities employ ghostwriters to write their books. It makes sense when you think about it - just because someone has good ideas and rich life experiences to share doesn't mean they know how to write effectively. Even seasoned writers have their worked edited by others, presidents have their speeches written for them, and even our favorite late-night comedians have their jokes written by a room full of writers. If you are thinking about hiring a ghostwriter, you are among famous folks throughout history who have done the same.
There are lots of reasons why someone chooses to write a book and involve a ghostwriter. Below are some ideas:
. . . For anyone who wants to express and share ideas and beliefs.
The beauty of today's world of self-publishing is that you don't have to worry about whether someone who doesn't know you thinks that your story is of value. By definition, your story is of value, if to no one else but you. If you need to express and share your story, it's my job to help you express it - no matter what!
. . . To document your life or the life of a family member who has passed.
Many people have found tremendous comfort and satisfaction in publishing a book about their own rich, life experiences or the life of a loved one who has passed. For your family and others to see the story of your rich life or that of a beloved family member touches them in a way that nothing else can. I can create such a book for you.
. . . For business, to establish or reinforce credibility or professional standing.
Many businesses and corporations have found tremendous value in having a book written about them and their offerings. Somtimes this takes the form of a corporate history. Sometimes the book is about trends in their business and how they fit in. The book becomes a powerful telling of the company's story, which to a potential client can make all the difference and influence their decisions immensely. There is too much information out there in the world and anything you can do to help a client or customer focus is appreciated.
For celebrities – to document a rich life for the benefit of fans or society and to clarify who they are beyond the tabloids.
Celebrities have a special dilemma. Their fame attracts fans who want information about their favorite performers and stars. But the media is too often interested in sensationalism, even if it isn't backed up by facts. For a celebrity, a book can serve the fans and help clear up the often false impressions promoted by the media.
With today's technology, publishers no longer have the last word about who can publish a book. Anyone has the right to express their thoughts and ideas in book form and publish them, making them available to others. Not everyone will be famous or sell millions of books, but those are not the only reasons for expressing and sharing ideas. If writing the book helps put your life in perspective for you and you alone, isn't that a great accomplishment? If only one person downloaded your e-book and it changed their life, wouldn't that be cause to feel joy and success?
Sit down with a cup of coffee (or your favorite beverage) and think about what you are passionate about and what lessons you have learned in your life that you would like to share with the world. Write down those lessons. They become the themes of your book. If you want help, give me a call. I have a great process to get those ideas out of your head and out into the world.