Topic: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

Mark Twain and 29 other great pseudonyms

Wednesday's special Google doodle wished a happy birthday to Mark Twain. The American writer was born 176 years ago. Well, Twain wasn't born then. A fellow named Samuel Clemens was. The pen name "Mark Twain" came many years later.

Twain stands among many great pseudonyms. Some are obviously fake – Vin Diesel and Sting. But others might surprise you – John Wayne and Alan Alda. Here are 30 of the best from books, movies, TV, and music.

Mark Twain: 10 reasons we love him

For Twain's 176th's birthday, ten reasons the world is still fascinated by the Missouri native.

Write stuff: The workshop that shapes American literature

The Iowa Writers' Workshop, on its 75th anniversary, offers a window into the state of American letters.

5 Asian authors you should know: the Man Asian Literary Prize shortlist

Five writers from China, Japan, and India made the cut this week when the Man Asian Literary Prize announced the shortlist for its 2010 award for the best novel by an Asian writer, either written in English or translated into English last year. The winner will be announced at a dinner in Hong Kong on March 17.

Huck Finn: Controversy over removing the 'N word' from Mark Twain novel

Huck Finn ('Adventures of Huckleberry Finn') is the fourth most banned book in the US. A controversial new edition would replace 219 references to the 'N-word' with 'slave.' Historical accuracy vs. censorship?

Mark Twain's autobiography – after a century's delay – becomes a bestseller

Mark Twain wrote his biography a century ago. Finally released, it's stirring plenty of interest.

One Hundred Years Later, Twain finally speaks his piece

Classic book review: Mark Twain: A Life

Like his young country, Mark Twain was rough, raw, and wholly original.