Book Discussion: The Secret Chord, by Geraldine Brooks

SecretChordGeraldine Brooks is one of the great living writers of historical fiction. Having published acclaimed novels set during the 1666 plague in England, the American Civil War, and Puritan Massachusetts, Brooks’ latest work takes on the daunting challenge of bringing the United Monarchy of King David to life.

Expanding on the spare Biblical narrative, The Secret Chord traces the arc of David’s journey from shepherd to soldier, from hero to betrayer, from beloved king to murderous despot, and into his remorseful old age. We see David through the eyes of those who love him or fear him—from the prophet Natan, voice of his conscience, to his wives Mikhal, Avigail, and Batsheva, and finally to Solomon, the late-born son who redeems his old age.

The Library owns four copies of The Secret Chord. The book is also widely available from public libraries in print and audio form. Our discussion of will take place on Tuesday, September 27 at 12:00pm in the Library Conference Room. A Biblical snack will be served.

Distance students and faculty are invited to join the discussion via Google Hangouts. For a complete schedule of 2016-2017 book discussions, see the Library Book Club webpage.