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
It’s amazing to realize this is a true story. I enjoyed reading it and learned a lot.
Based on the real events at the Worlds Fair, this book was very good.
A true story about a true American monster.
Very well written. Very interesting historical perspective.
Highly recommend this author – he makes history very interesting.
“In the Garden of Beasts” was also excellent.
Good book but it made me a little sick
One of my top ten books
Two absolutely captivating stories intertwined into a genuinely excellent book. It is engaging, informative (history buffs will love the detail) and frightening (as man’s inhumanity to man is…).
very worth reading, don’t miss
Historical fiction based on truth. A really macabre story set against the backdrop of the Chicago World’s Fair. Great character development.
I liked half of this book — the descriptions of the building of the White City for the Chicago World’s fair. I did not like the story of the serial killer, but the whole book is well researched and well done, and not a usual subject for historical fiction. Good for those who like tales of Jack the Ripper or true historical crime
t’s definitely an original strategy to interweave a serial killer’s career with the construction of the buildings for the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago, and it works structurally. At the same time, it discolors my feelings about the glorious Columbia Exposition, a sad thing for this Chicagoan
Very interesting however I had to work to finish.
To0o dark for me.
Great account of the historical time of the Worlds
Fair in Chicago.
I appreciate how Mr Larson researches to bring the elements of history to a modern reader in an entertaining manner. This is a favorite.
Any Erik Larson book is definitely 5 star.
Everything he writes is a page turner. One learns much reading his stories.
Erik Larson always opens up a window into history no matter the subject. We learn so much more about Chicago’s history in the story behind this killer.
I read this book years ago. Loved it.