What's in a Name, Part 2

April 10, 2009

Camille Minichino wrote a series of mysteries focusing on the Periodic Table of Elements. Then she started a new series, dealing with the world of miniatures (one of her hobbies), under the name Margaret Grace. She says it is easier for her to order pizza under her nom de plume.

Over the years, I’ve gotten any number of books from “new authors,” although the publicity material makes clear that they are not “new” at all. They just have new names.

I have never understood why the publishing industry thinks this is a good idea. Even if it’s a new series, or a different genre, wouldn’t a reader be pleased to follow a favorite author down a slightly different path? Are readers afraid of something new, or is the industry afraid that readers will be afraid?

I’ve done some work using a pseudonym, and found it an interesting experience. I discovered that my alter ego is brave and indefatigable. She will make endless phone calls to get the information she needs, whereas I am known to whine sometimes when I’m having trouble getting everything done.

No, I’m not telling you what my other name is. If I tell you, I have to kill you.

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Comments (1)

2009-05-17 07:31:39 | Camille Minichino - My many names

Hi Roberta, Ann Parker just alerted me to this mention. I don't know how I missed it since I have Google alerts on all my names! Publishers are into "branding" these days -- thinking that even though Camille Minichino didn't become a household word, maybe Margaret Grace will. They're hoping to give a new start to an old author. And I myself have been guilty of not giving an author a chance if they veer from the path. "Where's Harry Bosch?" I ask Michael Connelly for instance. Isn't that what Stephen King's "Misery" is about? Thanks for opening a very interesting topic. Camille/Margaret/Sister Anthony

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