From Shadows to Spotlight: Ghostwriting and the Art of Amplifying Unheard Voices

One of the many services we offer at The Book Whisperers is ghostwriting. This arm of our work is growing and expanding so well that at some point we will be looking to recruit writers interested in developing this skillset.  

To be a good ghostwriter requires good listening skills. It is essential to be able to hone in on the subtle nuances of what the client is telling you and then translate that into finding a way to help them say what it is they need to say. I find this work utilises and challenges all my skillsets, but the outcomes are so rewarding, not only with the finished book, but the privilege of getting to know the person I’m working with on such an intimate and dynamic level. 

Recently I interviewed one of our clients specifically for the purpose of writing an article for The Book Whisperers. Mark McKechnie kindly agreed to step up. 

So Mark, what made you want to write a book? 

I had been talking to friends about my life, particularly as my life is coming to an end with the dreaded Cancer. A lot of them suggested I write a book, so I decided to give writing a sort of biography a go. 

Did you find the process easy? 

No. Working on the book wasn’t easy – the last time I wrote anything was a letter that was about 3 pages long. The writing combined with my illness made it more difficult – trying to write while dying. The checking, double checking became a major problem and soon anxiety and stress started to set in, and I was left thinking -was it worth it?  

So, what changed for you? 

I had heard the term ghostwriter but wasn’t entirely sure what it entailed. When I started working with my ghostwriter it was like a hand from heaven with a pen in it appeared… For a complete novice the help was immense.  

What did you find the most helpful? 

The fact that Lea didn’t know me – this helped me greatly as she was coming to it with fresh eyes, particularly given I was trying to write about some extremely serious situations, and she was able to guide me through it. Her way of thinking, putting words on a page, forming a sentence – helping me to express myself on all aspects of my life. I never expected this amount of help. To this day I thank my ghostwriter helper and would highly recommend anyone taking one on.  

What was one of the standout moments for you with the process of writing the book? 

Seeing the finished product in print. This was unbelievable. I had started a project and finished it. When I got my book, I sat down and read it. It made me cry and made me happy and it made me laugh. The combination of all these aspects of a man’s life, everything looked as if my life, all the pieces, slipped into place and at the end of these weary days I’m a very happy chappy.   

Mark’s book, Little Billy Grey Rat is available on Amazon.

Author's Note: It is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the passing of Mark McKechnie. His indomitable spirit and tenacity shone through every page of his book, Little Billy Grey Rat, a testament to his determination to share his story, even in the face of his battle with cancer. Mark lost his fight with cancer, but his legacy lives on in his words, offering inspiration and hope to all who read his story. We are deeply grateful to have been a part of his journey, and our thoughts are with his friends and family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Mark, and thank you for the privilege of helping to bring your story to life.