Writer’s Digest - Questions & Quandaries: Why Do Authors Use Pseudonyms?

Let the informative (and humorous) "Questions & Quandaries" columnist Brian A. Klems answer some of your most pressing grammatical, ethical, business and writing-related questions, including why authors use pseudonyms. Check out his advice and don't hesitate to ask a question—your writing career will thank you.

Why Do Authors Use Pseudonyms?
Q: Why do authors use pseudonyms?—Anonymous

A: Authors write under pseudonyms, or pen names, for a variety of reasons. Established authors will do it to cross genres and keep from aggravating their fan bases. Wouldn’t you be a bit ticked off if you bought Stephen King’s next book expecting blood, guts and hair-raising intensity, only to find out it’s a weepy romance novel? King may choose to publish under a different name so he doesn’t disappoint his die-hard horror fans...

Read more about pseudonyms at Brian's Blog:
Questions & Quandaries by Brian A. Klems