Handbook of fictitious names : being a guide to authors, chiefly in the lighter literature of the XIXth century, who have written under assumed names, and to literary forgers, impostors, plagiarists, and imitators

A practical guide to the world of 19th‑century pseudonyms, this handbook lists the many writers who concealed their identities behind pen names, as well as the literary forgers, impostors and imitators who delighted readers with false attributions. The editor explains a clear system of symbols—asterisks for anonymous titles, brackets or em‑dashes for unknown names—so you can follow each entry without confusion. It also records the quirks of publishing conventions of the period, making it a handy reference for scholars and curious listeners alike.

The work includes a concise portrait of Joseph‑Marie Quérard, a bibliographer whose meticulous yet contentious career shaped the study of modern French literature. Through contemporary reviews, you learn how his “Supercheries Littéraires Dévoilées” sparked disputes and earned both admiration and criticism. The biographical notes illustrate the personal rivalries and scholarly dedication that defined his life, offering a glimpse into the human side of bibliography.