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
This book tells two stories: One, the bright spectacle of The White City (as Chicago’s World’s Fair was known), the other, darker and more nefarious, in the charming master of manipulation and America’s first documented serial killer H.H. Holmes. The juxtaposition of hope and wonder with evil and terror amplified the both the light and the dark. …
This book has lots of interesting history about the worlds fair, and an amazing story about a soulless criminal within the confines of a bustling Chicago. It was quite a read!
The Devil here is the first recorded serial killer in the U.S. While that story is going on, it is also a wonderful history of the Chicago Exposition of 1894, politics, art, landscaping all play a part.
One of my most favorite authors and this book did not disappoint. What a tale he has to tell. Page turning, this book will have you on the edge of your seat and you will learn a lot about history too. HIghly recommend this author and this book.
If you like any kind of mystery and or history, this is great!
I’ve read it three times and would read it again.
Fascinating story. Truth is stranger than fiction
Love this author! Great story of the world fair in Chicago and the mystery surrounding it.
Very interesting, frightening story
I think the book was very well written but the subject matter was unpleasant ( what is was like to live in Germany during the rise of Hitler). Despite that I enjoyed the book and found it very informative.
A dark but entertaining narrative of a famous serial killer
Nonfiction that reads like fiction!
Great book!
Did not like this book at all.
This is a well written true crime horror book!
Larson writes wonderful books on historical events and figures. I knew a little bit about the 1893 World’s Fair, but had never heard of Dr. H.H. Holmes, the infamous serial killer who murdered countless people as Chicago saw a huge influx of people coming for jobs and opportunity, only to end their lives tragically.
One of the best books I ever read. Will def reread it more than once!
Great read. Amazing attention to detail.
Great narrative nonfiction!
Learn so much able Chicago and some of the famous buildings. How the plan to be of use years later.