This is the 5th edition of a dictionary of pseudonyms last updated in 2004. More than 2000 new entries have been added to what is now an alphabetically arranged collection of over 13,000 pseudonyms. Entries include pseudonym, given name, birth and death dates, nationality, profession, and often the etymology behind the name change. The pseudonyms appear in bold, as do any other names mentioned which have their own entry, for ease of cross-reference. This edition contains an updated introduction which discusses various uses of pseudonyms and considers pseudonym usage among such groups as actors, musicians, sports figures, authors, politicians, artists, activists, and secret agents. A bibliography and list of abbreviations is provided. Room is a toponymist and the author of numerous reference books. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)