Cher: The Memoir, Part One was released in November 2024 by Dey Street Books, and with an eccentric upbringing, chart-topping hits, and a star-studded career spanning over six decades, you’d think the music icon’s memoir would rake in red-hot reviews.
To the contrary, an article from The Independent called the memoir “flat,” stating that it lacked a certain “je ne Cher quoi.” The stories are leeched of all color, the article’s author suggests, missing Cher’s distinct voice: “a dryer-than-dry mix of innocence, bluntness and almost masculine swagger.” The writer pins this flaw on “the limits of the ghostwritten memoir,” pointing out that the memoir was written by not one, but three separate ghostwriters.
It is interesting, then, that the article’s author goes on to highlight one of the reasons ghostwriting is so valuable—remarking on Cher’s “severe dyslexia”—which prevented her from not only writing her memoir but also reading it in its entirety for the audiobook.
But ghostwriting is a boon for more than just those with learning disabilities; it is also favorable to those with busy schedules who want the expertise of a practiced writer or those who simply want to spend their time differently (perhaps savoring fresh-caught branzino on a stone terrace overlooking Lake Como or joining the local roller derby).
Disparaging an entire industry fails to appreciate the complexities of the issue—that it is not about ghostwriting as a whole, but the skill, experience, and practices of individual ghostwriters. Without ghostwriting, we would not have Michelle Obama’s Becoming or Andre Agassi’s Open by talented ghostwriter J. R. Moehringer—critically acclaimed memoirs that prove books are sometimes great because they were ghostwritten, not despite it.
But ghostwriting is a boon for more than just those with learning disabilities; it is also favorable to those with busy schedules who want the expertise of a practiced writer.
And here at BrightRay, where a generous portion of our books receive ghostwriting treatment, we frequently produce books that trend at number one in their respective categories and are known for their widespread acclaim and strong reader ratings.
So what makes an engaging, ghostwritten memoir, versus one that reads “flat”? BrightRay writers have developed six best practices for creating memoirs that stand out and authentically capture each client author’s “special something.” Here’s how they do it:
Six Best Practices for a Dynamic Memoir
Understand the Subject’s Story Deeply
BrightRay writers conduct in-depth interviews with our client authors to uncover key events, emotions, and motivations—and they round out their understanding by researching their life story and historical context to add richness and accuracy to the narrative.
Find the Core Theme
Our writers determine the memoir’s central theme or emotional arc and craft the narrative around it. This allows them to create a cohesive and engaging story—one that connects with the readers through thought-provoking concepts and ideas.
Capture Their Voice
Cher’s memoir may lack her signature “deep, silky tone” and “sass,” but our writers are careful to pay attention to our client authors’ natural speech patterns, tones, and personalities. They write in a way that is authentic to our clients while maintaining clarity and polish.
Structure for Engagement
No strangers to narrative structure, our writers use compelling openings to draw readers in and clearly and intentionally structure the story, ensuring each section flows seamlessly into the next to keep readers invested.
Show, Don’t Tell
Every writer at BrightRay knows the importance of using vivid scenes and sensory details to bring moments to life, painting a picture that readers can truly feel. Dialogue and action also serve to make the story dynamic and immersive.
Collaborate Closely
Perhaps most important of all, BrightRay writers keep our client authors involved throughout the process to ensure accuracy and alignment. They are always open to feedback and revisions to refine the memoir’s authenticity and impact—and no book is ever published without the client’s approval.
Whatever Cher’s memoir critics say, we will have to agree to disagree on their assessment of ghostwriting. Ghostwriting remains an essential service for getting stories out to the world that might not otherwise see the light of day—and no one is denying that Cher’s story, with everything from her unconventional childhood marked by poverty to her turbulent partnership with Sonny Bono and battles for autonomy and success, needed to be told. (Even if it could’ve used more finesse.)
To learn more about putting your story to paper, schedule a call with us today.
Dannie Kinard is a proofreader at BrightRay Publishing. With a BA in English literature, certificates from the Editorial Freelancers Association and Poynter/ACES, and experience as an acquisitions editor, she brings a wealth of expertise to every project. Known for her keen eye for detail and approachable demeanor, she is dedicated to helping authors shine while fostering a friendly working environment.
