Beyond the Keys
Music and Stories of Inspiration
by Jeeyoon Kim
You must sign in to see if this title is available for request. Sign In or Register Now
Send NetGalley books directly to your Kindle or Kindle app
1
To read on a Kindle or Kindle app, please add kindle@netgalley.com as an approved email address to receive files in your Amazon account. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
2
Also find your Kindle email address within your Amazon account, and enter it here.
Pub Date Sep 19 2025 | Archive Date Sep 22 2025
Greenleaf Book Group | Greenleaf Book Group Press
Talking about this book? Use #BeyondtheKeys #NetGalley. More hashtag tips!
Description
Beyond the Keys: Music and Stories of Inspiration isn’t just a book you read—it’s an emotional experience you see, feel, and hear! Each of the 52 chapters is a heartfelt reflection paired with a solo piano performance by Jeeyoon Kim (via QR code) and an original work of art by a contemporary artist.
“Consummate musicianship, engaging and innovative concert experience...”
— New York Classical Review
“I didn’t expect a book to slow me down in the best way. I found myself savoring each essay, then listening to the music in complete stillness. What a thoughtful and moving creation.”
—Noah Park, father and poet
Just as a piano has 52 white keys, Beyond the Keys offers 52 uplifting stories that take readers behind the scenes of a classical pianist’s life. Jeeyoon shares her journey as a South Korean immigrant, entrepreneur, and artist in her 40s—exploring themes of resilience, growth, and the power of positivity. With warmth and vulnerability, she offers encouragement, insight into an artist’s world, and the healing power of the arts.. JeeyoonKim.com
Advance Praise
“Beyond the Keys is like a glorious bouquet of flowers chosen for its colors and enticing scent to enhance your day. The table of contents let me create a mini-retreat using a choose-your-own menu: by title, by artwork, by musical selection. Jeeyoon’s stories are shared with humor and vulnerability. Her music invited me to linger in the beauty of art and sound. It brightened my day each time I picked it up. Drop your phone and enjoy this book!” —Amy Brothers, teacher
“Ever the teacher, Jeeyoon Kim inspires us with life-affirming lessons and universal truths. With an engaging writing style, she weaves a tapestry of color, sound, and masterful storytelling, replete with empathy and authenticity. Beyond the Keys transports us deep into the author’s lived experiences—awash with vibrant colors and steeped in timeless melodies. Do you remember what it felt like as a five-year-old listening to someone, maybe a parent, read a story to you? The words alone transported us off to a new adventure. But then we saw the illustrations and went beyond the words into a magical or mysterious place. We traveled even farther if the reader added sound effects or different voices. During those wonderful moments, we felt curious, hopeful, perhaps a bit scared . . . but always safe and loved. And we had a calm sense that all is right with the world. So it is with Jeeyoon’s stories. Months, even years from now, we will not remember all the words she wrote, but we’ll never forget how she made us feel. Bravo, Jeeyoon! We are blessed that you are in our world.” —Karen Thickstun, retired professor of piano pedagogy
“When you read these stories, you may think, ‘Wow, Jeeyoon has had an eventful, interesting life.’ But she really hasn’t. Everything that has happened to her has happened to you or could happen to you. What makes Beyond the Keys special is how Jeeyoon looks at things, and what you can learn from them. Could reflecting on a beautiful painting or a Chopin nocturne help you put your own life and all that has happened to you into better focus? Try it—you might be surprised! One of our big problems today is fragmentation, made worse by digital “communication” and “social media.” Jeeyoon doesn’t tell you how to achieve greater wholeness; hers isn’t a self-help book in that sense (thank goodness). Rather, it is an exemplary set of models you can use on your own route to coherence by reflecting on the journey of a sensitive person who has devoted her life to seeking The Whole.” —Paul J. Gudel, professor of law
“Jeeyoon’s special gift is introducing you to music the same way she lives it—like telling a story, reliving the surprising, hilarious, and poignant moments with each listener.” —Joseph Bercovici, pianist and chef
“I didn’t expect a book to slow me down in the best way. I found myself savoring each essay, then listening to the music in complete stillness. What a thoughtful and moving creation.” —Noah Park, father and poet
“With each story, Jeeyoon offers a fresh perspective and gives an effortless, gentle nudge in the right direction—always leaving the reader feeling inspired and motivated to pursue their own dreams and goals. Stunning and often whimsical artwork, paired with thoughtfully chosen music that accompanies each story, makes this book both unique and beautiful.” —Igor Pandurski, violinist
“Each time I open this book, I feel more grounded. The music, the artwork, the words—it’s my little ritual of calm.” —Emily Torres, mom
"Beyond the Keys has become my daily delight. Each evening, I read one chapter—only one—so that this newfound journey doesn’t end too soon. I take time to admire the painting, then settle into a peacefulness as I absorb that chapter’s music. It has become a moment of colorful tranquility I now look forward to each day, always wondering what adventure Jeeyoon will take me on next." —Suzi Dillon, forever-student
“This labor of love pulses with humanity, empathy, and the author’s unique ability to weave gentle, thought-provoking stories that stay with you long after the final page.” —John Corban, piano teacher
“Beyond the Keys is a true gem—a blend of Jeeyoon’s heartfelt stories, stunning piano music, and thoughtful visual art. She invites you to pause, reflect, and connect with your own journey—with warmth, humor, and a deep understanding of human nature. It’s a book you’ll treasure and share for the rest of your life.” —Dianne Lefferts, amateur pianist
“Jeeyoon’s resilience, compassion, and positivity are inspiring. Beyond the Keys is yet another gift she shares with the world, alongside her artistry as a pianist. I’m grateful for the joy she brings through her music and words.” —Clara Kyunghee
“Beyond the Keys is an intimate glimpse into the heart of a true artist seeking her truth in everyday life. Jeeyoon combines music, visual art, and the written word to recreate the synergetic energy that expands, explains, and explores the human spirit.” —Susan Kitterman, former artistic director, New World Youth Symphony
"This beautiful book is a multisensory journey through Jeeyoon’s life stories, stunning music, and vivid illustrations. Each chapter captures her reflections and growth, weaving together engaging stories and piano performances that stir the soul. I highly recommend Beyond the Keys for anyone who loves music and human connection." —Cindy Parker, higher education professional
“Jeeyoon’s combination of storytelling, music, and visual art is unlike anything I’ve experienced. I laughed, teared up, and felt genuinely inspired. It’s the kind of book you keep on your nightstand.” —Carlos Lin, bookworm
“Beyond the Keys is a breath of fresh air. The pairing of music with each story makes the experience come alive. It reminded me of why I fell in love with the arts in the first place.” —Lena Parker
“Jeeyoon’s essays always feel like catching up with a close friend. She shares not only her musical journey, but also meaningful life lessons and insights on cultural differences—something I truly appreciate as someone from South America. ¡Gracias, Jeeyoon!” —Marco Fierro, Spanish instructor
“Jeeyoon’s writing offers a window into her life, revealing the depth and qualities needed to be an artist. As a piano student, her words have been a guiding light on the path to artistry.” —Javier Correa, amateur pianist
“After hearing Jeeyoon’s music at the Baroque on Beaver Festival in 2019, my mother, husband, and I became instant fans. We love how her music, podcast, and newsletter bring thoughtful reflections and shared moments of beauty and kindness.” —Shirley, Brian, and Davonne
“Beyond the Keys is a book that blends and stirs our emotions. Jeeyoon invites us, as part of the human family, to share our hearts in words, music, art, and life. She gives us the chance to give, receive, and interact in love.” —Stuart Yatsko, Great Falls, Montana
Marketing Plan
National trade marketing and sales campaign
Targeted podcast media campaign and interviews
Advance distribution of digital review copies via NetGalley to reviewers, bloggers, journalists, librarians, booksellers, and media
Online marketing campaign including targeted advertising and advance giveaways
Available Editions
EDITION | Other Format |
ISBN | 9798886453621 |
PRICE | $29.95 (USD) |
PAGES | 272 |