Uncovering Secrets: What Inspired the Secret Birmingham Book
Have you ever felt like a city was calling your name, even if you’ve never actually lived there? That’s me and Birmingham, Alabama. We go way back. We’re real good friends. And that connection is exactly what led me to write the Secret Birmingham book, a project that’s both a love letter and a curious stroll through the lesser-known aspects of the Magic City’s past and present.
As a local writer and lifelong storyteller, I’ve spent the last five years blogging about travel, lifestyle, and culture, partnering with tourism boards across the country. I’ve written about the beach towns of the Gulf Coast to the mountaintop views of the Carolinas.
But somewhere along the way, I realized something: I needed to know more about my own home state. That journey started with a city that’s always been near and dear to my heart—Birmingham.
Me and Birmingham? We Go Way Back.
Although I’ve never lived in Birmingham, it’s always been part of my story. My mom and dad worked in Birmingham for decades. My first job was there. I worked with the Jefferson County Board of Education for years, and I’m a proud member of the Birmingham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. I even sit on the Board of Directors for the Greater Birmingham Auburn Club.
This metropolis has always felt like home. And, I’ve come to realize it’s a place where stories linger in the air, waiting to be told. In Secret Birmingham, I tell those stories.
From Blog Posts to Bookstore Shelves
Writing Secret Birmingham was a journey down an ordinary path filled with surprising stories. I traded in my digital blog drafts for a manuscript. My farmer’s market Saturdays turned into secret-hunting weekends.
With a camera in one hand and my phone in the other, I wandered Birmingham’s streets, alleyways, and green spaces—yes, even the peaceful Japanese Garden—documenting everything from quirky landmarks to the unexpected side of Birmingham’s rich cultural history.
And when I found myself short on photos (and slightly out of my depth), I boldly messaged a talented local photographer I discovered on Facebook. He graciously stepped in to help me capture some of the more elusive moments and historic spots.
I also connected with other local bloggers and photographers for support with images.
What You’ll Find in Secret Birmingham
Secret Birmingham isn’t your typical travel guide. It’s not all BBQ joints and museum listings. It’s a peek behind the magic curtain of the Magic City. It’s a little different from your typical non-fiction titles. In the book, you’ll find things like:
- Never-told stories of an intriguing cast of characters
- The heaviest corner on Earth and what made it such a big deal
- The birthplace of Veterans Day and why it matters more than ever
- How Birmingham’s history affected world history
- Secrets of the city’s industrial boomtown era
- Ties to the civil rights act, the fire hoses of the 1960s, and the complexity of race relations
- Forgotten ties to intelligence operations
- (Arguably) the most important invention in automotive history
- Connections to culinary legends like Frank Stitt
- Unique insight into some of the most iconic structures in the city
- And yes… some of the city’s most important inventions and technological advances that shaped the region
This book is a multihued portrait of a city that has seen it all—from the rise of the industrial steam engine to moments of profound social change. You’ll read about progressive members of educational communities, contributions of white citizens and Black citizens alike. There are also a few secrets so unexpected they had me blinking twice.
And tucked in between it all, you might even find some references to other Southern icons. I will guide you through this city, focusing on the lesser-known aspects of its history.
Why Now? Why This Book?
The popular perception of the city doesn’t tell the full story. Birmingham is so much more than a southern city with a complex past. It’s a place where young people are shaping new narratives. Where historical novels meet modern momentum. Where hidden stories from the late 1800s reveal the foundations of modern industrial society.
In a world filled with headlines, I wanted to slow things down and tell the story of Birmingham—its heart, its hustle, its hope.
Where to Find Secret Birmingham
Ready to discover Birmingham in a whole new way? You can purchase Secret Birmingham from the Reedy Press website or beginning August 1, pick up a copy at bookstores and retail shops across the Birmingham area.
First-time visitors, longtime locals, and those who appreciate rich cultural connections will all find something worth uncovering inside these pages.
Meet Me in the Magic City: Author Events You’ll Love
As part of the celebration around Secret Birmingham, I’m partnering with some incredible businesses and venues in and around the Magic City to host fun, interactive events that are open to the general public. These aren’t your average author signings. We’re talking about community, creativity, and connection.
One of my favorite events is Pages & Plants at House Plant Collective in Birmingham. Guests can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with plant shopping, DIY crafts, and book talk, all in a gorgeous, plant-filled space. It’s a chance to explore Birmingham’s green side while uncovering some of its most unexpected stories.
You’ll also find me at book signings hosted by some of the best bookstores in Birmingham. These events aren’t just sign-and-gos; they’re opportunities to dig into Birmingham’s rich cultural connections, chat about what secrets didn’t make it into the book (there were a lot!), and swap your own favorite Birmingham memories.
And there’s more to come from pop-ups to book + brunch events and maybe even a few historical tours with a twist. Follow Secret Birmingham Book on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the know about events and signings.
Keep an eye on my social media and the Reedy Press website for an updated list of events.
One Last Thing…
This book isn’t just about Birmingham’s past—it’s about its promise. Its grit. Its grace. And the secrets that still shape it today.
So, come along. Let’s pull back the curtain together.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next secret teller I meet in the wild.
Local writer Cherith Fluker guides you through the city with hopes of helping you find new reasons to love Birmingham.
