Authors only please?

Question

Does anyone know the laws about having pen names? I was just wondering because I can only think of one author that has a pen name, but there has to be laws about them, right? Anyway, I need to know the laws for the U.S.A. Thanks.

I want to use a pen name to remain anononomous.

Answer 1

http://www.ivanhoffman.com/pennames.html
http://mdmd.essortment.com/penname_ravc.htm
http://web.mit.edu/gtmarx/www/identity.html

Essentially a pen name cannot be another's real or assumed name, must be listed with or without one's real name on the copyright of any original work (this affects the duration of the copywright), and cannot be used to undermine the law. Otherwise, have at it.

For more detail, check the sites above.

Answer 2

i'm not sure of the laws, but mark twain and george orwell both had pen names...i've never written under one.
i don't find it necessary unless your name is either hideous or you wish to remain anonymous.
i personally would want my own name on the cover - to take credit!
happy writing and good luck
sorry i might not be helping...
kr