#62 From Red Carpets to Booksignings: Celebrities Embracing Fiction
Keanu Reeves has teamed up with China Miéville for his debut novel. What does the rise of co-authoring and ghostwriting mean for the publishing world?
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This week, Matrix star Keanu Reeves and British science fiction author China Miéville released their new novel, The Book of Elsewhere. This marks Reeves’ debut as a novelist, though it's not his first foray into fiction. The Book of Elsewhere is inspired by Reeves' comic book series BRZRKR, co-created with writer Matt Kindt and artist Ron Garney.
The trend of celebrities writing fiction is steadily growing. For instance, comedian Kanan Gill came out with his first science fiction novel Acts of God and Tom Hanks’ short story collection Uncommon Types, became the bestseller in America.
Why are celebrities writing fiction?
Celebrities often claim that writing fiction allows them to explore their creativity. In an interview with the New York Times, Reeves said, “It surprised me in the creative act, what gets revealed to oneself.”
Some celebrities also share personal stories or offer a new facet of their public persona. For example, Ethan Hawke's novel A Bright Ray of Darkness has been marketed as a raw and insightful exploration of a troubled actor's psyche, drawing from Hawke's own experiences in Hollywood.
However, the fact that these celebrities and publishing houses capitalize on this trend is no secret. In 2018, Twinkle Khanna became the highest-selling female author in India with her novel Pyjamas Are Forgiving.
In 2021, Reeves's comic book series BRZRKR became the highest-selling comic book series of the Century selling over 615,000 copies. In addition to this success, Netflix is going to adapt the series into an anime film and an action film starring Reeves. With an already existing fanbase and Reeves star status, The Book of Elsewhere, is ready to grow the BRZRKR franchise.
The rising popularity of ghostwriters and co-authors
Professional writers gain visibility and opportunities through these collaborations, often working on high-profile projects that might otherwise be inaccessible. Celebrities expand their brand and connect with their audience in new ways, while readers receive well-written books.
Alia Bhatt, recently co-wrote her debut children’s book Ed Finds A Home with Shabnam Minwalla, an established children’s book author. This collaboration ensured that the book met the high standards expected by readers and critics.
The process of working with a ghostwriter or co-author can vary, but it generally involves close collaboration between the celebrity and the writer. Kendall and Kylie Jenner’s Rebels: City of Indra, involved inputs from ghostwriters. Despite the controversy surrounding the extent of their involvement, the book benefited from their professional writing skills.
Tara Khandelwal the founder of Bound believes, “Getting a book ghostwritten no longer carries the negative connotation it once did. Books are increasingly being used as marketing materials by legacy companies, founders, and experts—or simply as a way to share their knowledge. The goal is to share their insights with the world in the best possible way.” Bound India offers ghostwriting services, helping clients bring their stories, experiences, and wisdom to life.
Author and historian Nalini Basu relies on ghostwriting to support her other creative endevours, she says “I technically look at this as a side gig, to be able to do what I like, which is essentially to write books of my own, and honestly book writing doesn’t pay any bills,”
However, many times co-authors are not given due credit. Literary agent Kanishka Gupta, says that “even if the author is happy to have a ghostwriter’s name on the cover, and the ghostwriter too is happy to partake in the advance and royalty and charge a smaller writing fee, the publisher may not be okay with this arrangement”, as the famous figure’s brand value might get compromised.
Ultimately, the trend of celebrities writing fiction provides mutual benefits for both celebrities and professional writers, but it also raises important questions about recognition and authorship. As more celebrities enter the literary world, the industry needs to find a balance that respects the contributions of professional writers while leveraging the star power of these public figures to attract readers.
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