Three questions on the subject of Mr. Galbraith

by · July 14, 2013

The secret is out. J.K. Rowling has published another book, but this time right under our noses. MuggleNet reported last night that The Cuckoo’s Calling, written under the pseudonym ‘Robert Galbraith’, was in fact penned by the Harry Potter author herself. This news obviously comes as quite a surprise, and we have a few questions following this unparalleled announcement.

1) Why publish this book under a pseudonym but not The Casual Vacancy?

Back in September of 2012, J.K. Rowling’s first novel for “grown-ups” was published, to somewhat mixed reviews. This was accompanied by several appearances and interviews by J.K. Rowling where she discussed the book. But why not have used a pseudonym for that novel and release The Cuckoo’s Calling under her own name? Or use a pseudonym for both?

2) Could this start a trend for very well known authors?

J.K. Rowling can be considered something of a literary trendsetter, having set the trend for literacy in young people when Harry Potter was first published. In recent years, authors, and more so young adult authors, have come into the spotlight and have gained much more attention from the media and the general public than in the past. Could this bold move strike a craze among authors looking for a clean slate?

3) How will the fans respond to this?

While it is believed to be quite unanimous among J.K. Rowling fans that news of another book, Potter or not, is certainly good news, some may question the underhanded way that it was done. When a new J.K. Rowling book comes out, we look forward to the crowds of people waiting for their copy, the release parties, the huge displays, and the slew of media coverage that comes along with it. While there will no doubt be much excitement as people trickle into bookstores, looking for the couple of copies that sit among the “regular” books, it just is not the same.

Now it’s your turn! Let us know your thoughts on these questions and don’t be afraid to ask your own.

Regardless of the fashion under which The Cuckoo’s Calling was published, J.K. Rowling must be commended solely on the fact that this was kept under wraps for three months. We very much look forward to reading this novel, and will keep everyone up to date on any related news.