When you're searching for the perfect name for your newest addition, the typical family names and top 100 lists can get a bit old. If you're looking for originality and names with amazing back stories, why not turn to the pages of classic literature? There are some truly unique baby names inspired by your favorite books that you will miss out on if you're looking only to your family tree for your baby's namesake.
The English major in me gets giddy at the thought of bringing new life to a beloved book character by giving their name to another person. It's a fantastic way to impart a deep appreciate for reading and creativity on your child from a young age. Not to mention there is an endless possibility of characters to name yor child after.
Maybe you're looking for an independent, strong namesake for your daughter, a name with history or great meaning for your little boy, or maybe a name from a different culture. Your favorite books can give you that and more. Although giving your baby a literary name doesn't necessarily guarantee they'll grow up to be the next great author or inherit your love of reading, it certainly can't hurt to try.
1
Scout From 'To Kill A Mocking Bird'
One of America's most loved books, To Kill A Mockingbird features Scout Finch, a young, inquisitive girl. Her name is a unique, gender neutral choice perfect for book lovers of all ages.
2
Darcy From 'Pride And Prejudice'
Mr. Darcy from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is one of the most loved characters of all time. He's secretive, but ultimately selfless and romantic. His name, however, is a less popular but super unique option that would be great for either a boy or a girl.
3
Daisy From 'The Great Gatsby'
Although Daisy Buchanan's character isn't the model of excellence, The Great Gatsby's female lead has a sweet and feminine name that would be perfect for a girl.
4
Gale From 'The Hunger Games'
Unless you want to name your child Katniss, Gale might be your best bet from The Hunger Games series. And airy, nature name, Gale also makes a great gender neutral choice.
5
Harry From 'Harry Potter'
Easily the most popular series of our time, Harry Potter is a natural namesake for any baby boy.
6
Lucy From 'The Chronicles of Narnia'
Lucy Pevensie from C.S. Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia is one of the most loved characters in the series. She's innocent in the beginning, but grows to be wise and always kind. Her name means "light" and is an adorable, youthful choice.
7
Scarlet From 'Gone With The Wind'
Scarlet O'Hara is the definition of a Southern Belle. While she's not known for her upstanding character, she has become an icon of one of the most popular novels ever. The name, like the deep shade of red it symbolizes, is mysterious and beautiful.
8
Beatrice From 'Divergent'
Beatrice, or Tris, from the Divergent series is strong, independent and brave. Her name has an equally memorable meaning; she who bring happiness.
9
Aibileen From 'The Help'
Set during the tumultuous Civil Rights Movement, The Help has prompted important questions of racism and led to a popular film by the same name. Aibeleen, one of the main characters, helps to write the book that rattles the South.
10
Francine From 'A Tree Grows In Brooklyn'
Mary Francis Nolan, or Francie for short, is the main character in the coming to age story A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. Though her name isn't Francine, it's a more modern, feminine version of her middle name in the story. And there aren't many nicknames cuter than Francie.
11
Marley From 'Marley And Me'
The name Marley isn't just for puppies. It means "pleasant seaside meadow" and is a sweet, gender neutral option.
12
Sydney From 'A Tale Of Two Cities'
Sydney Carton, one of the central, and most dynamic characters of Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities. The name is a great gender neutral choice and is derived from the French name for Saint Denis.
13
Holmes From 'Sherlock Holmes'
Despite the many film adaptations, the original series by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle remains a steady classic. Naming your child Holmes would be a safer bet than Sherlock, which is pretty much spoken for.
14
Cosette From 'Les Miserables'
The heroine of Victor Hugo's famous novel Les Miserables, Cosette is French for "little one" and is a beautiful and unique choice.
15
Jo From 'Little Women'
Jo March, from Lousia May Alcott's Little Women was head of her time. Fiercely independent and admirably headstrong, she's the perfect namesake for any little girl. Her name is short for Josephine, which means "Jehovah increases" in French. But Jo stands on its own just fine.
