Arlington Heights Author Pens Book Set In 1930s Chicago

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — The setting for his newest novel is especially meaningful to Arlington Heights author Joseph Reed (pen name J. Daniel Reed). It's set in the same Chicago Northside neighborhood his grandparents moved to after emigrating from Eastern Europe.

"Whispers in a Phone Booth: A Depression-Era Tale of Danger and Deception," published by Terra3 Communications, was published on Dec. 14, 2023. According to the publisher, the book centers on the four young emigrants, who escape Poland just as World War I" unleashes devastation upon Europe." The story follows the refugees as they establish new lives in a Chicago neighborhood, fighting anti-immigrant bigotry. It then fast forwards to 1930s Chicago.

"They all met and married in Chicago," Reed said. "I use the historical fiction genre because it allows me to share a story my father told me of a harrowing event he witnessed in Chicago as a 17-year-old. Part of the description of the incident is based on my father’s exact words."

This is the second book for Reed, a Chicago commercial real estate leader turned author. His debut novel, "The First Wolf Pack: A Dog’s Fable," was a success.

The new book crosses the genres of historical fiction and mystery, according to Reed.

"One of the reasons I wrote the book is because it contains messages the world needs to hear and embrace right now in these turbulent times," Reed said. "It's a tale of charity, faith, and hope."

The book is currently available at Barnes & Noble, and on Amazon.