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
Excellent
Just fabulous research and execution. A mind blowing moment in history impeccably researched.
Wow! This true story was a captivating page turner.
very creepy.
One of my best books that I have read.
The Devil in the White City tells of the intertwined stories of Dr. H. H. Holmes and the architect Daniel H. Burnham . As Mr. Burnham was designing the Chicago World’s Fair with it’s gleaming white stucco ( hence the name “White City”), Dr. Holmes was renovating his newly bought pharmacy into a “murder castle”. As young women flocked to witness …
Loved it, checked author out to read more.
Mystery, murder, history and more…this book has it all. From one of my favorite authors, the book is detailed and well researched. While it may take a little effort to get through the beginning, it’s well worth pushing through the riveting historical novel describing Chicago, the World’s Fair, introduction of electricity, and murder.
I love every book written by this author. He never disappoints.
It was a great read. Strangely the writing is most engaging when giving the back story on the World’s Fair and the H. H. Holmes sections are less interesting
A well-written book about things that went on during the first World’s Fair in Chicago.
I usually find Erik Larson books to be page turners and generally a quick read, but I found Devil in the White City to move very slowly and I had a hard time finishing the book.
Truth is always stranger than fiction
I read it years ago and it’s top-notch. Readers beware: this is the story of a serial killer in Chicago during the world’s fair way back when. Riveting, troubling but not gory, and very well written. And the good guys get their man. Highly recommend it.
I am not a non-fiction reader. Many reviews said the book reads like a fiction crime story. Well, I don’t agree. This read like non-fiction because … it is non-fiction. I gave it 3 stars because of the extensive research.
Great book!!!
Fantastic history of the Chicago World’s Fair and an evil man’s story.
Constricting like to house the villin constructs.
One of the best books I have ever read.
Enjoyed the descriptions of the Fair. Probably would have enjoyed it more without the murders.