Title Changes in Fiction: A Filmmaker's Perspective

Have you ever come across a book with a title that seemed to misrepresent its content or style? Changing titles can be a challenging task, especially in the literary world where the title is often the first thing a reader encounters. Recently, I had a chance to reflect on book titles that were changed, and it brought back memories of my work with a particular publisher.

Why Change a Title?

Authors put a lot of thought and deliberation into choosing their book titles. After all, a title can make or break a reader’s first impression. L. Sprague de Camp's The Great Fetish is not an exception. Originally published in sections titled Heretic in a Balloon and The Witches of Manhattan, the title of the novel is incredibly misleading and turns off many readers. Similarly, Richard A. Lupoff's novel Crack in the Sky was initially intended to have a more evocative title, Fool's Hill. Often, the author's preferred title can be just as effective if not better.

Going with the Author's Wishes

Robert Asprin's series “Another Fine Myth” and “Myth Conceptions” are great examples of how a title can make a compelling series. Yet, the first book was initially titled Another Fine Mess rather than Another Fine Myth. Asprin's work could easily have changed due to the original title, but the series thrives with the chosen title. The decision to go with the author's preferences can lead to a more engaging and cohesive narrative.

The Publisher's Influence

As a filmmaker working with a publisher who noticed that a title might confuse readers, I experienced a significant shift in the marketing and reception of my book series. Initially, the title was odd but fitting to the books' unique content. However, after years of success, the publisher decided to change the title, leading to a less impactful and visually unappealing cover design. The new title and cover design failed to generate the same level of interest and engagement.

Conclusion and Advice

In the realm of fiction, choosing a title that resonates with the intended audience is crucial. Sometimes, sticking to the author's original vision can lead to better results. As a fellow writer or publisher, it's essential to listen to the author’s input and ensure that the title accurately reflects the essence of the book. Revising a title can be risky, but it's vital to balance the author's wishes with what the market expects.

For those working within the publishing world, understanding the importance of a good title and cover design can significantly impact a book's success. After all, a compelling title and cover are often the first steps to grabbing a reader's attention and keeping them hooked.