Let me start by noting that this article has just been updated (2026). It’s easy to understand that the idea of having a children’s book ghostwritten or even rewritten can be nerve-wracking. You’ll no doubt have a number of questions:
– Does the writer know what she’s doing?
– Is she qualified? Is she a skilled writer?
– Does she know the genre you want a book in?
– Is she reasonably priced?
– How long will it take?
– Will she listen to my input?
– Will it be my story?
– And so on and so on
So, the first thing in the client/writer process is for you to do your homework. Research ghostwriters/rewriters who write in the genre you’re interested in.
Check out her website, including the Testimonials page.
Other important aspects to pay attention to: Is the site active? Is there helpful information on it? Is the writer’s contact information easy to find?
You should even check the copyright date at the bottom of the site.
Next, ask for a phone consultation if you find someone you’re interested in. Or, if you prefer, ask for an email consult. Then, ask for writing samples.
The NDA
If you are interested in working with a ghostwriter and want to make sure your information (story idea, etc.) is safe, ask for a nondisclosure agreement (NDA).
An NDA is a signed agreement that the writer will provide to let you know she will keep any information you send pertaining to your story confidential.
Having an NDA is optional, especially when dealing with a reputable ghostwriter. But given that everything is online, if you’ll feel more secure, the writer will be sure to comply.
The Freelance Writing Agreement.
Once you get a feel for the writer and believe she’s legitimate, agree upon the fee, and are ready to work with her, ask what the next step is. It’s usually a freelance writing agreement.
Interestingly, some clients prefer an agreement, while others don’t care.
The freelance writing agreement will detail all that’s involved in the process. It’ll list the price, the payment schedule, the timeline, and other items.
Note: If a freelance agreement isn’t used, I make sure all the details are listed in an email. It’s essential that the client knows what to expect, whether it’s ghostwriting or rewriting.
I’ll start on the details for rewriting.
A rewriter is a manuscript doctor (book doctor). You provide a manuscript you want overhauled.
Similar to ghostwriting, we discuss the details of the story: what you think is wrong with the story, how you’d like it changed. If you’re not sure, I’ll run with it. We’ll also discuss the target audience. It’s essential to know who the story is being written for. Then I get to work.
I send portions of the story as I write for your feedback and to make we’re in agreement. It’s pretty simple.
Now, onto what it’s like to work with a children’s ghostwriter once the agreement details have been finalized.
As I can only speak for my business, I’ll explain how my process works.
The first thing to do is to discuss all the details of the story.
I’ll ask for any ideas, notes, outlines, drafts, or other content the client may have. We’ll also discuss what type of story is wanted: funny, a mystery, an adventure, a fantasy, or other. We’ll discuss the target audience’s age and whether it’s to be a picture book, a chapter book, or a middle-grade book.
Some clients are very particular about the character names, so that may also be discussed.
It’s essential that I know what message the client wants to convey to the target audience and what the takeaway value should be.
Give as many details as possible.
The publishing method.
Another important aspect to be discussed is the publishing method to be used.
If a client is going the traditional route (submitting to publishers and agents), the word count and other aspects of the story must adhere to current publishing standards.
If a client is going the self-publishing route, there’s a bit more flexibility. This does not mean you can produce a substandard product; it means, for example, if you want a picture book of around 1000 words, it’s your prerogative.
I’ve had a client who said he was self-publishing, but after the story was complete, he decided to submit it to publishers.
The problem was that the word count was too long for a picture book and too short for a chapter book. These types of hiccups can arise when the client isn’t sure what he wants.
The beginning of the story.
Once the initial payment is received, I start writing the story based on the information I have.
I keep the client informed by sending drafts of the story as I go along. As I send the story, I wait for the client’s input. If it’s approved, I’ll move forward. If changes are requested, I make them if they are in accordance with children’s industry guidelines .
When the client requests changes that are inappropriate for the genre, age group, or other factors, I’ll bring it to the client’s attention and suggest that the changes be reconsidered.
An example of this is in one story in which the client wanted the young protagonist and her friend to play in the street. For the age group, this was completely inappropriate. You cannot suggest dangerous behavior in a young children’s story.
The middle.
As the story progresses, the client becomes more familiar with my writing style and the story’s tone. At this point, she knows whether it’s the story she envisioned. And the process continues. I write and then submit what I’ve done for approval or suggestions.
I revise as we go along.
The end.
Once the entire manuscript is completed, we will discuss if any changes are needed. Once revisions are made (if required) it’s on to editing and proofing.
Then, I’ll submit the final manuscript to the client.
The timeline.
A children’s picture book is usually completed between 2 and 4 weeks. I allow up to 6 weeks, as you never know.
Chapter books can take 4 to 8 weeks.
Middle grade can take 2 to 3 months, but I allow for up to 4 months.
Who owns the story?
You will own the story; you will be the author. You have full rights to the story and can do whatever you want with it. The fee is my compensation for creating and writing the story.
Extras.
When I first started ghostwriting children’s books, once the manuscript was complete, that was the end of it.
However, as time passed, more and more clients requested additional services, such as back cover copy, author bio editing, manuscript formatting for submissions, and even basic marketing help.
I also coordinate manuscripts to illustrations for clients. This process includes checking the illustrations for errors.
Then I found clients who would contact me about self-publishing their books. I’ve seen many of them spend thousands and thousands and thousands to have their books self-published that I stepped in. I now offer self-publishing guidance and services at Writers on the Move Self-Publishing Guidance and Services.
So, my services have developed to include these elements to help clients achieve their dream of being an author without being overcharged.
That’s about it.
Keep in mind that every writer may have their own process and details, but this should give you a general idea of what to expect when working with a children’s ghostwriter or rewriter.
MORE ON WRITING FOR CHILDREN
Become an Author – 5 Basic Rules
Being a Writer – Learn the Craft of Writing
The Biggest Mistake First-Time Children’s Authors Make
NEED HELP WITH YOUR STORY?
I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, rewriter, coach, and self-publishing consultant. I can help turn your story into a book you’ll be proud to be the author of, one that’s publishable and marketable.
You can contact me at kcioffiventrice@gmail.com
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