Expert: Amanda J Evans - 12/2/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, because my surname is not exactly one that would sell books, I am writing under a nom de plume. I am what i would describe as a practicing writer. when it comes to the copyright page I have included my real name and AKA. This looks incredibly sloppy and somewhat pompous. will my nom de plume suffice or should both names be used?

ANSWER: Hi Tony,

My apologies for the delay in answering your question.  If you are writing under a nom de plume then this should be the only name listed on your copyright page.  If you want recognition under your own name then use only this name.  It really is a matter of choice but if you prefer to use a pen name then this should be the only name you use.

I hope this helps to clear things up for you and I wish you the best of luck with your book and your writing career.

Kind regards,

Amanda

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi again, thanks very much for your previous answer. My next question, if I may ask, is what is the best procedure for copyright -
a) if you have money to pay for it
b) if you don't have money to pay for it.
Also, is an ISBN number essential to copyright and how do you get one, preferrabley at no cost?
I have copyright a story by copying the copyright phrase from books and the posting the story to myself with dated postage marked. I signed over the envelope seals and obviously it remains unopened. How effective is this procedure?
Many thanks

Answer
Hi Tony,

In relation to an ISBN this is only if you are publishing.  You can self publish via Lulu.com which is free and you can also purchase an ISBN through this website.  As far as I can remember I think it was about $30 for this and it is automatically inserted into your book. This is a link where you can get more information on ISBN's - http://www.isbn.org/Standards/Home/isbn/us/isbnqa.asp

This is another link that might also help -
http://www.bowker.com/index.php/supportfaq-isbn/380-faqs-isbn-howtoget

In relation to copyright - basically anything you write is automatically copyrighted to you. Here are a couple of links that will give you some more information on this especially if you want to receive a certificate of copyright for your work.

http://www.copyright.gov/register/ information on registering your copyright and receiving a certificate of ownership.

another excellent article on copyright http://ezinearticles.com/?Copyright-Procedures;-Quick-and-Easy&id=249822


I hope this helps to answer your questions.

Kind regards,

Amanda