Gathering of the Ghosts 2025

Ghostmasters 101: How to Break into the Business of Ghostwriting

David Moldawer

I began my publishing career as an editor, acquiring and developing nonfiction at top imprints, including St. Martin’s Press, Portfolio, McGraw-Hill Professional, and Amazon Publishing New York. Over a busy decade, I worked with a diverse array of celebrated authors, including Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Mamet and wellness icon Deepak Chopra. My acquisitions included bestsellers such as *The Personal MBA* by Josh Kaufman, *Car Guys vs. Bean Counters* by Bob Lutz, *Nothing to Lose, Everything to Gain* by Ryan Blair, *The Sports Gene* by David Epstein, *Idea Man* by Paul Allen, and Behance’s *99U* series.

Transitioning to book collaboration, I became a sought-after ghostwriter and book proposal specialist in business, self-help, and personal development. My proposal collaborations secured multiple seven-figure deals and helped produce bestselling books, including *Atomic Habits* by James Clear and *Feel-Good Productivity* by Ali Abdaal.

As an agent, I bring deep expertise to every stage of the publishing process, from shaping standout book concepts to positioning authors for lasting success. With a strong grasp of both creative development and market strategy, I serve as a trusted advocate for authors who want to make a meaningful impact.

At Writers House, I seek nonfiction books that challenge assumptions, reshape industries, and change the way we think about the world.

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