The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America

This spell-binding work by Erik Larson was an instant hit with me. It combined two things I love (history and great story-telling) to great and compelling effect. The story centers around the 1893-4 Chicago's World Fair and two men key to its impact on the American psyche: Burnham, the architect who engineered the masterpiece of showmanship, and H. H. Holmes, "America's First Serial Killer". It follows both of them through their career while expertly interweaving the tale of the fair itself, which was not only a seemingly impossible feat but also introduced several important and exciting inventions to America and the world at large (the two that come to mind are Shredded Wheat and the Ferris Wheel, although I'm sure there were others far more important and a tad less whimsical). It's a fascinating glimpse into the time period, too, both in terms of the social structure, the evolving subject of architecture (which is actually interesting), and the medical community. For example, it was relatively easy for Holmes to dispose of his murder victims because he would sell them to medical schools and doctors (after first removing all traces of identity). Cadavers were so limited yet so high in demand that students robbed graveyards of insane asylums and doctors didn't question the sources of their lucky acquisitions. Overall, it was an intricate, well-thought out book that hooked me in from the beginning and kept me interested till the last. I would highly recommend it.

I've read this book before and every time I do I find something else to ponder. This nonfiction book carries the reader to the world's fair in 1893 in Chicago. From Burnham, the fairs director of works, and Holmes, considered the first American serial killer. He lured unknown amount to their death. Besides these two so many things evolved from this fair, the way cities are planned, potential for electricity, and inspired a young Walt Disney,

This book was very interesting. Everyone has heard of H.H. Holmes at this point in history but to know the story as it coincided with the world's fair was very interesting. The book is written well and does not feel like a textbook though there are some dry parts that could have done with less direct quotes.

Barbara's pick. 👍🏻 Historical fiction/true crime. About one of the earliest serial killers, H.H. Holmes and how he used the World's Fairs to hide his reign of terror.

He is an amazing writer. I've read all his books Well researched