I have written a non fiction memoir in which I use real names and real events. Everything I have stated in the book is true. I have signed a contract with a publishing company and my book is currently being edited and printed. At the request of a friend who read my book and wondered if I could be held liable for using real names, I decided to write to the editor of the publishing company and ask. Their response was that I should use fictional names to avoid a potential lawsuit. I do not want to do that, nor do I feel there is anything contained in my book that would be considered untrue, slanderous, or even controversial. The editor went on to say that the printing of my book is nearly completed and for me to change names at this point would cost me money. There was nothing in the contract that related to this subject and I feel that I am being wrongly treated if the publisher expects me to change people's names at this point at a cost to me. What are the laws regarding this, and is it mandatory that I use fictional names in place of real names?

Pat

You should have thought about changing the names before submission of your manuscript. If the book is almost finished printing why should the publisher absorb the cost of changing the names in the book? Do you realize just how expensive a proposition like that is? Thousands of dollars. Do you have that kind of money to have everything reprinted just on someone else's say so?

The publisher is definitely not mistreating you. If anything, you should be very grateful that someone wants to publish your book these days knowing just how much it does cost to print up a book in hopes that anybody will buy it.

And no, it is not mandatory that you use fictional names in a non fiction book.

Hello p:

I wrote a book. It ISN'T the same when you use fictitious names. Your publisher used the word "should" and not must, therefore in my view, you don't have to change the names.

Sounds to me like you have more trouble from your publisher than you would from one of your friends whose name you used. Let me know if they REFUSE to continue to print if you refuse to change it.

excon

A book was just written that had a very bad section about one of my family members. We are very upset. It was all true but involves one of my brothers suicides. I am wondering if I can sue for emotional distress. I really think it is wrong to use real names. Yea you might sell more books by using the real names but it is extremely hurtful and upsetting.

This thread is from 2009, long dead. I believe the question was answered correctly.

Do you have a question?