NC Reads: The Violin Conspiracy

North Carolina Reads annually features five books that explore issues of racial, social and gender equity and the history and culture of North Carolina. Join us as we discuss these five books that pose critical questions about how North Carolinians view their role in helping to form a more just and inclusive society. 

June 1 book - The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb

• (Fiction) The riveting story of a young Black musician who discovers that his old family fiddle is actually a priceless Stradivarius. When it's stolen on the eve of the world's most prestigious classical music competition, he risks everything to get it back. Growing up Black in North Carolina, Ray McMillan's life is already mapped out. But Ray has a gift and a dream - he's determined to become a world-class professional violinist, and nothing will stand in his way. Not his mother, who wants him to stop making such a racket; not the fact that he can't afford a violin suitable to his talents; not even the racism inherent in the world of classical music.

For a free copy of the book, please contact Anthony Dykhouse at (910) 483-7727 ext. 1404 or adykhouse@cumberlandcountync.gov. 

North Carolina Humanities' North Carolina Reads is a statewide book club exploring issues of racial, social and gender equity and the history and culture of North Carolina. North Carolina Humanities is a statewide nonprofit and affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions, opinions or recommendations expressed do not necessarily represent those of NC Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.