Keith Koeneman

Keith Koeneman is a third-generation Chicagoan. His most recent book (September 2026) is a novel called Paternity which explores the nuances of class and money as two families grapple with their anxieties, tragedies and secrets as they raise families and pursue happiness over two decades. The story arc of Paternity includes a midlife affair, hidden DNA tests and the discovery of a daughter, giving one character a second chance at fatherhood. Koeneman's first book is First Son: The Biography of Richard M. Daley published by the University of Chicago Press. It covered the political dynasty of the Daley family, as well as over 50 years of Chicago history, politics and culture. Koeneman also has taught and spoken as an expert on Chicago mayoral politics on television and radio. He holds advanced degrees from Harvard, University of Chicago and Northwestern University, and a liberal arts degree from Carleton College. Koeneman lives in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood.