Here's a breakdown:
* He writes some books entirely on his own. These are usually his standalone novels and some of his Alex Cross series.
* He often co-authors with other writers. He might collaborate on the plot, characters, or even the actual writing itself. This allows him to publish more books, explore different genres, and work on projects he might not have time for otherwise.
* His name is typically the main author listed on the cover. Even when co-authored, James Patterson is usually listed as the primary author.
While he doesn't write every word himself, he is actively involved in all his projects and has final approval over the content. Some fans appreciate the co-authoring process, as it allows them to enjoy a wider variety of stories and characters. Others might prefer books written solely by Patterson. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to read a Patterson book is up to the individual reader.