What’s in a name – and what’s the best way to choose a title for your book? This article reveals how the rules for naming a book OR business are essentially the same.
And it shows you how to do both.
* * *
Orgasm Chocolates
Did I get your attention?
Of course I did…
And that’s exactly why Julie Whitcomb (one of my former coaching clients) took my advice to rename her chocolate company from “Ziva Chocolates” (which didn’t mean anything) to “Orgasm Chocolates” (which gets immediate attention and implies a sensual experience). Since then, Julie’s been featured on FOX news (a 7-minute segment), gotten interest from QVC, and her company has been scrambling to keep up with the increased demand for her tantalizing treats.
You might not like hearing this,
but it’s true and you know it:
The words you use to talk about what you do are just as important as what you do; the words you use to describe your book… are just as important as the words inside your book.
So, if you’re not using the right words,
you’re taking some serious risks:
- People won’t understand what you do
- They won’t understand the value of what you do
- They won’t take action
- Or they won’t even notice you
So, today I thought I’d share some tips to help you choose the best words for your book, website domain, company, etc. You might not be able to make all of the following guidelines work for your name (but it’s a good goal). Put “Orgasm Chocolates” to the test (for example) and see if it satisfies all of the following “requirements.”
* * *
Create a Spectacle
You don’t have to be risqué and use a name as racy as “Orgasm Chocolates,” but you shouldn’t use a name like “Quality Chocolates” either. Boring! Do something creative to get attention (if it’s also entertaining in some way, even better).
* * *
Make Me Curious
You can use simple, straightforward language and still create curiosity. If I was developing a product to help writers get published, I might call it “How to Get Published in 30 Seconds or Less.” People would say to themselves, “That’s impossible!” Then they’d read the subtitle to learn what the hook is. There they’d learn that agents often decide if they’re interested in your work within the first 30 seconds of reading about your book.
* * *
Make a Promise
When I used to be a literary agent (helping authors get published), I sold a book to Random House called “The Marriage Plan: How to Find Your Soul Mate in One Year or Less.” Being direct can be powerful. I’m not sure the book would have ever gotten published if it hadn’t had that clever title and promise.
* * *
Be Memorable
One of our coaching clients had a TV show called “The Effortless Productivity TV Show”. His personal mission was to help people get out of “busyness” and get down to business. I suggested that he change the name to “The Busyness TV Show” or “The UnBusy TV Show” (much more memorable). And, oh yeah, the latter idea includes a “promise” (note the previous strategy above).
* * *
Easy to Spell
Don’t get too clever (something I have to fight as well). Don’t invent new words, use weird spellings, or strange names that would require you to spell them out every time you say them to someone else. Companies like Google with lots of money to put into advertising can pull it off. But names like that don’t SHOW UP in search engines like Google because no one is looking for them.
* * *
The Think & Feel Test
Be clear about what you want people to think or feel. I’ll mention the “Orgasm Chocolates” example again here because it elicits all kinds of thoughts and feelings when you hear it. When you first heard the name, you probably thought two things: 1) “Did he really just say that?” and 2) “Those chocolates must be really good.”
* * *
Get Help, But Not Too Much
Nothing kills good names (and good marketing ideas), like getting too many people involved. I’ve seen great names end up in the trash because of this, and awful names end up being used… with disastrous results.
Choosing the right name can truly make the difference for your book (or business). But it has to be the right name. So get help. There are many more things to consider when it comes to naming, than the few I was able to fit into this short article. And, for every rule or guideline I can tell you about, there are important exceptions to the rule.
Now, what do YOU think about all this?
What’s one of your favorite book titles of all time (and why)?
Tell me below…
– Mark
* * *
* * *
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
I have been reading a number of your posts and am now surprised that all responses to this one are from 2013????
Publishing is constantly changing so what is your present status?
Hi Marie, that just means that that’s probably when I first published it and that’s when most people see a blog post and comment on it. However, since I recently started posting some of my older article on social media, more people are find their way to them as well.
To see my latest info, the first thing you should do (if you haven’t already) is click here for access to the valuable resources in my private, members-only area (no charge): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, you’ll get things from me. You should also (if you want to get a top agent) click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (and text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.
If you want help with anything else, you can post questions for me online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/. I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work.
All my best,
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
I like what you had to say. There are so many suggestions out there regarding book titles that it can be confusing for someone trying to decide on one. I have always felt that a simple approach makes the best sense for me. Keep it simple, and keep it smart – that seems to be the core of what you are suggesting.
Hi Gwenne. Simple and smart sounds good to me. Feel like I opened up the Pandora’s box with this article since there are so many exceptions and special considerations when it comes to naming. But so it is. Thank you for taking time out of your day to say hello, and have wonderful rest of the week. Mark
Dear Mark,
I was reading accessing your article on the library computer, so I would have preferred the name
of the chocolates to be in much smaller print.
Seriously, though, I thought the article was helpful, especially the point about not inventing words (with the exception of the person who is writing a nonsense book for children).
My husband seems to be fortunate in being able to select intriguing titles so far. I just wish he would finish the last chapter of his book.
Regards, Gai
Hi Gai, okay… if I gave away a prize each week for best comment, this might win. Your library comment absolutely slayed me. Hilarious. Did that really happen? Either way, too funny. I hope I didn’t really embarrass you. Although what a great story we both have now to talk about. 😉 Now, here’s to you and your husband “getting on the same page” with his book! Have a great Friday and I hope to see you again soon. Mark
The only drawback is that I probably wouldn’t want to give Orgasm Chocolates to my boss. Actually, with a name like that, I guess I’d keep it all for myself! Since book stores are fading away and all you have is a list of titles that a consumer will look at for only three seconds, the title/name is make or break. Thanks for the reminder to pay attention to first impressions…
Hi Erika, okay… rare moment… I’m out of words. You are funny. But you already know that. Good for you to hear it though. Good point you made about bookstores. Titles are actually more important now in the online universe because when looking at covers… they’re now much smaller. Hadn’t thought about that. Here’s to great titles. YOURS rocks, by the way. Have a great Friday and weekend, and see you soon! Mark
Here I am Mark!!!! I didn’t leave 😉 I read everything you send me, I just don’t comment much. Great idea with the chocolates!!!! Hopefully she gives you an unlimited supply for your brilliance! Lol
Hi Tina, glad to hear it. Thanks for taking a minute to say hello. I love your enthusiasm. I also like staying connected, hearing success stories, and helping out in any way I can. So have a great Friday and weekend… and stay in touch! Mark
I totally agree, I also believe the cover is important. The cover needs to intrigue but the title has to hold your attention. Again the words describing the book need to be interesting and not too lengthy.
In my experience the cover is normally what I notice first, followed by the title. I have put many books back on the shelf when the book description goes on and on. You want people to read your book, so don’t write a book about your book.
Hi Jan, good point. Sometimes, but not usually, authors get carried away and make their titles too long. On the other hand, a very long title can be great if it’s good. Because most titles aren’t that long. That’s the problem with naming, for every rule there are exceptions! Good point about the cover of the book, would make another good article topic. 😉 Thanks for posting and have a great Friday… and weekend. Mark
“The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.” I like that title:) IT’s just plum fantastic!
On the flip side of that coin…I detest the title, “Harry Potter.” It tells me absolutely nothing. I really LOVE the series, though. FANTASTIC! Why such an awful name for such a grand series?
Hi Kishe, good one. Classic. How do you not pick THAT up to see what it’s about? And you’re right about Harry Potter. Wait a second. I think there was more to it than that. The first one was “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”. Better. Actually, before that it was “Harry Potter ad the Philosopher’s Stone” and then they changed it because that was lame. 😉 Good hearing from you and have a great Friday and weekend! Mark
There’s good stuff here to think about with your message, Mark. You brought the point home with entertainment and smarts. My favorite book title…..it has to be ATLAS SHRUGGED. Only two words, and they’re loaded with power. The image coming to mind is extraordinary. The meaning is even a little scary. It’s a very dynamic title no matter what a person’s politics happens to be.
Thanks again for all the information you’re sharing.
Blessings, Janet
Hi Rhymster! Also good to see you. I love Atlas Shrugged, and The Fountainhead. Not just the titles but also the books. Thank you for adding two more powerful titles to the mix for everyone to see and consider as they’re trying to come up with their own. Have a fantastic Friday and I hope to see you again soon. Mark
Book Title: The Instant Activist (just add a little time!)
(I am encouraging people to get involved politically by identifying an issue, using talents you already have, and using my site to find job descriptions that campaigns and groups need using your existing talents or “Political Personality.”)
Harold
Well now, Mr. Thomas… that’s quite good (and you know I’d tell you if I thought it was a stinker). I wonder if you’re playing with possible titles for that book you’re currently developing? I hope you’re still having a good week. Email to you coming soon. Right now I’m replying to comments and I just finished my column for tomorrow. Not as fun as Orgasm Chocolates but hopefully it holds everyone’s interest anyway. Have a good night and see you soon. Mark
Good stuff!!! 🙂
Hi Gil, you look familiar. Have I met you before? Maybe in a past life? Just kidding, mostly. For everyone else reading this right now, they’re wondering if I have one too many glasses of wine tonight with dinner. But you get my inside jokes. Even if they’re not that funny. Always good to see you. Have a fun Friday and weekend. Thinking of you. Mark
If I told you how many time you have met me before, you probably wouldn’t even believe it! And yeah… I do get your inside jokes, as always, but please don’t quit your day job! 😉
HI Gil, I’d say that’s too funny… but I know you’re serious. So I’ll just say okay. That’s why we hit it off the “first” time we talked a while back. And no, I’m definitely not going to quit my day job to do comedy. My cats would get very skinny. Wait, that was pretty funny… wasn’t it? Just kidding. I’ll stop now. Have a good night. Mark
Mark,
You have my comment but now I have a question. There seems to be a conflict among advisers on the subject of including an INTRODUCTION and SUMMARY and/or a PROLOGUE and EPILOGUE in a novel. What is your opinion?
Hi Barney, follow your gut when it comes to these things. As you know, you’ll see different opinions on these topics. The book needs to dictate the structure. In other words, the use of these items should be determined by whether the book “needs” it to be most effective. Of course it’s always good to have someone in the business give you an opinion after getting more familiar with your work. But not everyone is able to do that. So hopefully this helps. Mark
Years ago, there was a publishing trend to ban prologues and epilogues as having no interest to readers. One of my manuscripts was sent back to me with a note attached, “The last chapter has a good ending. Just cut the epilogue.” The problem was that the whole point of the story, and answers to some mysteries, were in that epilogue. Rather than buck ignorance, I thought — Just don’t label it as an epilogue. Call it “Chapter 52.” And if the prologue is important, make it ‘Chapter 1.”
Thank you for saying that. People (including authors) need to think and feel more and trust their instincts. The story needs to determine the structure of the book, including whether it should have a prologue, etc. Your suggestion for naming is good as well. Unless your first or last chapter are significantly shorter. That creates different problems. 😉 Mark
Mark,
“What’s in a Name” provided information that is so true. It may seem like and ego issue, but It’s not when I say that my favorite book title is one of mine, i.e., “A Recipe for Murder.” OK, so it’s unpublished, but that’s because it not the favorite of anyone else. At least it is based on the fact that the title is so relevant to the story as well as meeting the important requirements you listed, specifically; “Make Me Curious & Make a Promise.” Thank you for doing what you do.
Hi Barney, if YOU don’t love your work… you can’t expect anyone else to. So I don’t mind you saying that at all. Especially since it’s a good title. That helps. 😉 Thanks for posting and thank you for expressing your appreciation for my work. It means a lot to me. Have a fabulous Friday and weekend… and I hope to see you again soon. Mark
Hi there,
I love listening to you. You are honest, hardworking, brilliant realistic and inspirational. Listening to your mp3 interviews have really given me lots of hope. It’s rare to fins someone who tells itlike it is. I am editing a groundbreaking and controversial best selling book(with your assistance and expertise). I look forward to working with you in the future!
Curti
Hi Curtis, thank you so much for taking time to post… and express your appreciation for my work. You officially just made my day. Now, if you’re the same Curtis who left me a voicemail a few days ago… please know that I’m going to return you call TOMORROW. I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to get back to you. I’m on deadline this week getting a lot of things done for clients so they can pitch their work to agents before Thanksgiving. Thank you again, and talk soon. Mark
Hi Mark, Titles…your topic has an excellent list with examples, thank you. Titles for me are valued most for their visual concepts.
“Beaches” the movie title was my first response. Several hours later, the same title claims my attention. That single word title links images collected over many years. All relate to the closest tiny waves soaking into dry sandy shores. Evelyn. | Books for Writers
Hi Evelyn, thank you. I appreciate you highlighting the power of having something visual in a title. One of these days I’m going to make a comprehensive list of naming considerations. I could probably come up with about 100! Thanks for posting, and have a great Friday… and weekend. Mark
Mark – Thanks for yet another interesting email. I always enjoy reading your thoughts and professional opinion and it certainly got me thinking about my book titles. I’d be interested to know your opinion (if you care to give it), my novel is currently titled: An Island Never Cries, and I’ve a children’s book (which I should mention is nonsense verse – so think Edward Lear or Lewis Carroll) which I’m currently calling The Saga of Poggledash, Pibbledum and the Heap of Zippity
Any thoughts?
unwanted advice: Poggledash Saga is okay Poggledash is very nice word. The double “g” has it sort of like “butternut creme” but “poggledash” goes beyond because you can say, “Oh, poggledash!” and it sound like a good cuss word as good as “Balderdash” which I think Tolkein used. Pibbledum is ok too- the p-b-d-m combination are really nice and would be backed up by approval form speech therapist because actually I had to learn that group of consonants together. “Heap of Z” is bad
“Heap of Z” has weak structure. Zippity belongs to “doo-dah” as in song, “plenty of sunshine coming my way-zippity-doo-dah…” Heap of anything is bad: a Heap is a pile. Heap of trouble or disorganized stack of things:heap of clothes. Zippity is associated w/speed: zippity-split as in a flash-horse race. So something of oxymoron or mixed metaphor, but problematic word hash. Only memorable “heap” is “Uriah Heep” and belongs to Dickens/ rock band. Problematic associations. (opinionated frog)
I agree with frog’s comments on Poggledash and Pibbledum. I also balked at “Heap of Zippity” because it didn’t roll off the tongue like the other two. I thought a single word, also starting with P might be better. If I have a grandchild one day, I’ll be looking out for that book! All the best, Gai.
Hi Gai, I have nothing profound to say. Just wanted to say hello and let you know it’s good to see you! Have a fantastic Friday… and weekend. Mark
Hi Frog, you read my mind on this one. Mark
Hi Stephen, I have no idea what your book is about… but when I saw yours I immediately thought of “Crying Island” instead… but I also like yours. Regarding the children’s titles, I like “Poggledash” all by itself. Sometimes less is more, but that’s just my take on this. And again, I have no idea what the book is about! Thanks for sharing… and have a great Friday and weekend. Mark
You are so right Mark. The title I chose for my book is boring as hell. So, I changed the the title and added a sub title to the cover. After 35 refusals, I knew I had to change something. I also changed my bio and statement about the book in all my queries. If these strategies do not work, I will be saving my pennies to hire you to guide me in the right direction. But, I do have to try this on my own, first. I read everything you send my way and pay attention to all your suggestions. Elizabeth.
HI Elizabeth, I loved your comment because I love honesty. We learn so much (and enjoy a bit of laughter) when people have the courage to share like that. So, first and foremost, thank you for that. I hope the changes you made do the trick for you. But, if not, you know where to find. And I already know I’d enjoy working with you. Keep me posted, and have a great Friday and weekend. Mark