Dictionary of Pseudonyms

Book excerpt: Throughout history many individuals have changed their names or adopted pseudonyms for a variety of reasons. In some cases the change is a mere simplification, while some make the change to adapt to a new homeland. Whatever the reason, the new names present many questions, both serious and trivial, for researchers of all kinds. This greatly expanded and completely updated version of our highly acclaimed title ("very useful" --RQ; "deserves a place in any collection of serious onomastic works"--Verbatim) gives the changed names of over 8,000 people (up from 4,000 in the earlier edition) who have "made a name for themselves." Arranged by pseudonym, the entries give the true name, vital dates, country of origin or settlement, and profession. Many entries include the story behind the persons name change. Seven introductory chapters offer an enlightening look at the various aspects of names and pseudonyms, including such topics as "Names for a Living, " "Invented Names" and "Why Another Name?" Fully indexed.