Let’s Talk Pen Names
Let’s Talk Pen NamesI have a pen name. It’s not very original and includes my maiden name, but I don’t write under my actual, legal name. I know authors who totally reinvent their persona and a pen name to match. Why do this, I hear you cry?
There are many reasons why someone would chose to publish under a pen name, such as privacy, to have a more interesting author name, and to create a brand.
There are also many authors who use pseudonyms when they choose to write in different genres, and I find it a great idea when you already have a loyal fan base for a certain genre. JK Rowling is also Robert Galbraith, Nora Roberts is also J.D Robb. Stephen King also wrote under the pen name Richard Bachman. Apparently, he did this because in the 1970s and 80s, authors were expected to only publish one book a year to not saturate the market.
There are, however, some cons to using a pen name. If you want total anonymity, a pen name doesn’t guarantee that. But on the reverse, promoting a book whilst hiding your identity can be really difficult. Also, you need to make sure of the legalities around your chosen pen name.
Do you have a pen name. What was your main motivation for choosing your pseudonym?
Content belongs to KJ Chapman
