We at ApMtn can’t decide if we’re thrilled by the evidence uncovered by Michael Sherrod and Matthew Rayback in their new book Bad Baby Names, or a bit disappointed.

I’ve yet to read the book, but wanted to recommend the New York Times article.  If you haven’t already read it, check it out.  The duo suggests that there have always been outrageous, outlandish names and that a moniker like Candy Stohr or Mary Christmas does not hamstring a child.  The same is true for a name like Oswald or Harriet.  While we might have a negative impression of the name, the person we meet can quickly overcome our initially unfavorable impression.

There are two ways to take this, of course.

One: Go ahead.  Name your kiddo Ebenezeromeo.  He’ll do fine in life anyhow.

Two: Not so fast.  Sure, it won’t ruin your kid’s life to christen him Diesel.  But that doesn’t make it a good plan.

For now, we’re going with Two.  And running down to the bookstore to order a copy of the book.