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

I suppose I thought this was more of an investigative story of a serial killer during the time of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. While it is that it is also the story of the architect responsible for creating the Fair. In my opinion too much time is spent on the story of the architect (in minute detail) and not enough on the serial killer, considering the title of the book. It could be that there was not enough "evidence" available about the killer but, I almost had the feeling the author was, maybe not making things up, but, embellishing facts.

I am not a history buff. I don't like history in general. I actually read very little nonfiction. This book was recommended by my brother so I felt some obligation to try reading it, but I really liked it. I learned more about Chicago, one of my fav cities, and interesting factoids from this book than any I have read like it. I was fascinated by the story of the man who was a mass murderer (the dark element)and was really hoping to read more of the dark side. Still, it was an interesting presentation of Chicago at an interesting time in history. I'm not sure the stories really deserved to be intertwined or needed to be , but I guess it served a purpose. Each story in itself was interesting enough, but I credit Larson for switching it up a bit. I visited Chi-town shortly after and the names from the story are so extremely relevant today. Good recommendation, bro!

This was the first book I rated a 10 out of 10 in my bookclub. The author weaves so much detail into this story and in such an easy to read and suspenseful way, that I couldn't believe it was non-fiction. The story of the serial killer is fascinating and reported in such detail that, again, it is hard to believe these events actually happened. Contrasting that subplot is another that describes the triumph of architecture and cultural pride that was the World's Fair in Chicago. Anyone who has an interest in architecture, Chicago, or early 20th century history will thoroughly enjoy this book. It made such an impression on me that when I traveled to Chicago for a conference a few months after I read it, I took an architectural boat tour so I could see up close the few remaining Burnham buildings and appreciate the skyline of the city described so articulately in this book.

This book was my first introduction to Erik Larson. Needless to say, I became an immediate fan.

This book follows what I have come to recognize as trademark Larson: he takes two real life (and seemingly unrelated) characters and weaves them seamlessly into the same overarching story. In this case, he combines architect Daniel H. Burnham and serial killer H. H. Holmes. Then he places them squarely into the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago.

This book was incredibly well written, thoroughly researched, and fun to read. It was equally educational, historical, and creepy. Burnham should be admired for his accomplishments. Holmes was flat out disturbing.

This book fell right into my wheelhouse: late 1800s, murder mystery, just the right amount of historical information, great character building, and solid story telling. I highly recommend it.

Written the way a history book should be! I typically classic works of fiction almost exclusively, but I couldn't put this book down. I've been recommending it to history buffs and fiction fans alike. Larson's attention to detail is breathtaking, and the juxtaposition of the two primary plots is intriguing. Most impressive. A great read.

One of the best books I'read. I recommend it highly. Keeping it to share with family and to re-read someday.