Earthbound surname that few would make as first choice.

Undiscovered Irish surname with a lot more bounce and masculine dash than Shannon.

Somewhat dashing surname, but with serious teasing potential.

Stiff and sedate surname name, despite its salty start.

The surname of father-son British writers Kingsley and Martin could work very well as a first, though its Amy connection makes it sound a tad feminine.

Evocative of the sand dunes at the beach, Doone is a relatively rare surname found in Scotland, Ireland and England. It was recently used with this spelling by Olympic medalist Amanda Beard; photographer Diane Arbus named her daughter Doon, inspired, yes, by walks along the sand dunes during her pregnancy.

Associated with the poet and novelist Galway Kinnell, this name of an Irish city, county, and bay would make an evocative choice. For further literary cred, writers Liam O'Flaherty and Frank Harris both hail from Galway.

A surname with more force than most.

Cooper would be a more engaging C-starting occupational choice.

Lively, friendly surname that might appeal to basketball fans.