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 an array of celebrated authors, from Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Mamet to 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 one of the most sought-after ghostwriters and book proposal specialists in the business and personal development spaces. 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.

Now, as an agent, I bring my expertise across every stage of the publishing process—from shaping breakthrough book concepts to positioning authors for long-term success. My deep understanding of both creative development and market strategy makes me a trusted advocate for authors looking to make a meaningful impact.

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

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