Northbrook Public Library invites the community to read Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb and join us in October for a series of programs that explore the book’s themes. The highlight of the series will be an evening with Brendan Slocumb, author of Symphony of Secrets, on Wednesday, October 15, at 7pm. A book signing will follow the program, and copies will be available to purchase. This event will also be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.
The library's community read features 10 programs, including live music, book discussions, lectures, and a film, all centered around the themes of Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb, a thrilling mystery about the race against time to expose a long-concealed musical theft. To register for One Book, One Northbrook, visit www.northbrook.info/onebook or call the library at 847-272-6224.
Copies of Symphony of Secrets are available to check out at the library. The eBook and eAudiobook are also available to check out on Libby with a library card.
Attendees of the One Book, One Northbrook Kick-Off event on Saturday, October 4, from 10:30-1pm will also have the chance to enter to win a free copy of the book or tickets to a Northbrook Symphony Orchestra concert.
Where to find Symphony of Secrets
Symphony of Secrets is available to check out at the library, and readers can also access the eBook or eAudiobook through Libby with a Northbrook Library card.
Copies of Symphony of Secrets can also be purchased at Book Bin Northbrook, and copies will also be available for purchase in our lobby during the author event on Wednesday, October 15 at 7:00pm.
Join us to kick off One Book, One Northbrook
The One Book, One Northbrook Kick-off Event will take place on Saturday, October 4, from 10:30am–1:00pm. The community is invited to enjoy a live jazz performance by the George Grunditz Trio (11am–12pm), pizza, and a craft activity. Registration is not required for this drop-in event.
How the title was selected
Symphony of Secrets was selected after reviewing over 50 titles suggested by the community and library staff. After paring down the contenders, library staff discussed the titles with colleagues and members of the community, and rated the finalists to find a title that received stellar reviews and awards, would appeal to both adult and teen readers, offered a wide diversity of themes for potential programs, and had an author who was available to participate in a speaking engagement at the library.
Adult Services Librarian Caitlyn Hannon highlights the book’s broad appeal: "Symphony of Secrets draws the reader into the world of classical music and composing with an insider's view of what is actually happening behind the scenes. As secrets unravel to hook you in, the book also invites the reader to think more deeply about artistic credibility and existing in a space that does not welcome you based solely on your identity. Symphony of Secrets has something for a wide range of readers—mystery, art, romance, intersectionality, and history."
About Symphony of Secrets
In this gripping mystery, a music professor uncovers a shocking secret about America's most celebrated composer. As he digs deeper, he finds himself in a race against time to expose the truth before a powerful organization intent on keeping the secret buried destroys the evidence, his reputation, and his career.
About the author
Music has always played a major part in Brendan Slocumb's life. He has been a public and private school music educator and has performed with orchestras throughout Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. for over 20 years. Brendan Slocumb's first novel, The Violin Conspiracy, was published in 2022. Symphony of Secrets was published in 2023, and his latest novel, The Dark Maestro, is available now.
One Book, One Northbrook Sponsors
We thank the Friends of the Northbrook Public Library and the Laird Family Foundation for their generous sponsorship of One Book, One Northbrook.
