The Ghostwriter's Toolkit: Become A Storyteller For Hire with Erin O'Dwyer

The art and business of ghostwriting – from shaping a powerful life story to pitching work that gets published.

This practical workshop is designed for writers looking to break into the world of ghostwriting. You’ll learn what ghostwriting is (and isn’t), explore its key applications, and understand how to shape and tell someone else’s story in their voice. The course covers how to build trust with a client, draw out powerful source material through interviews, structure a book-length work, and write with clarity, purpose and discretion. You'll also explore the business of ghostwriting – including contracts, pricing and how to pitch yourself to clients and/or publishers.

Learning Outcomes

As part of this workshop, you will:

• Understand what ghostwriting involves – practically, ethically, and professionally.
• Identify key applications of ghostwriting including memoir, biography, business and thought leadership.
• Know how to work with clients to shape a strong concept and compelling narrative arc.
• Learn interviewing and research techniques to capture authentic voice and detail.
• Understand how to structure and draft ghostwritten material.
• Gain insight into pitching, pricing and managing ghostwriting projects
• Leave with a sample pitch or proposal you can refine and use in the real world.

Format

This is a hybrid workshop with a focus on writing craft; it will be held in-person at Queensland Writers Centre and live streamed to an online audience via Zoom. This workshop is suitable for aspiring ghostwriters of all levels and backgrounds.

About Erin

UErin O’Dwyer is an award-winning journalist, editor and writer with more than 25 years' experience across print, digital and publishing media. As a ghostwriter, she is the co-author of Accessory with convicted drug dealer Felicia Djamirze (Affirm Press, 2025) and Swellbeing with professional surfer Blake Johnston (Hachette, 2025).

For more information about Queensland Writers Centre’s Program of Events and answers to FAQs, please visit: www.queenslandwriters.org.au/program-info