An account of the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893 relates the stories of two men who shaped the history of the event–architect Daniel H. Burnham, who coordinated its construction, and serial killer Herman Mudgett.
The Devil in the White City
By eriklarson
Astonishing story that is a page turner
Erik Larson is a master at building non-fiction narratives from seemingly unrelated occurrences and historical figures. He begins by introducing us to the history behind an event and the different characters who played a role, then weaves a rich, complex web that entertains and teaches. The Devil in the White City, about serial murder in Chicago …
Learned a lot & enjoyed some parts of the book but it was overall a slow, dull read.
Historical record of the guilded age
Awesome history,so fun to read
This book alternates between the history and makings of the Chicago World Fair and the actions of the murderer Holmes. The chapters can be tedious when it comes to the fair as it lags on flowers, building structures, etc. However, the author does an excellent job when it comes to fictionalizing the real actions of Holmes and makes his atrocities …
This is one instance where truth truly IS stranger than fiction!
This was such a hard story to read but it was inspirational in it’s way. Society has come a long way but we still have a long way to go.
His first and best book. Reading it gives a great understanding of Chicago.
One of the best books I have ever read.
One of the best books I ever read.
This book required two readings because it was two stories. For those of us interested in true crime, the Murder Castle was fascinating. For those of us interested in history, the Exposition was fascinating. Win-win.
A fascinating episode in US history.
I really loved this book and even sent it on to a relative. It is terrific.
Creepy
Outstanding in every way.
This book was a fine description & review of an early world fair. On the other hand, the story was rather tepid, not worth the effort.
It is difficult to realize that it really happened.
If you grew up in Chicago you will love this book. It’s a great true crime book.
A true story of horrible murders of young women at the turn on of 20th century.