The Devil in the White City

by Erik Larson, Erik Larson ’78JRN
The Devil in the White City cover
Good Books rating 4.25
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 2397
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780553813531
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2004-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Chicago World's Fair of 1893 was a spectacle of innovation and grandeur, showcasing the best of human achievement. Architect Daniel H. Burnham led the effort to create a dazzling display of art, technology, and culture, while serial killer H.H. Holmes used the fair as a hunting ground for his victims. This dual narrative explores the extraordinary efforts behind the fair's construction and the chilling crimes committed in its shadow, offering a unique blend of historical insight and true crime.

Reviews
Bvitelli2002's Blog · Bvitelli2002 · 2025-01-11
compelling 4.00

The reviewer enjoyed Larson's writing and the way he tied together different stories into a compelling narrative. They found the book both educational and entertaining.

Bvitelli2002's review highlights their enjoyment of Erik Larson's writing style and his ability to weave multiple stories into a cohesive and compelling narrative. They appreciate the educational aspects of the book, particularly the historical context of the Chicago World's Fair and the crimes of H.H. Holmes. The reviewer finds the book to be both informative and entertaining, praising Larson's skill in bringing historical events to life.

Quick quotes

    I really enjoyed Larson's writing and how he tied these three stories together into a compelling narration.

    I also liked learning about Chicago and the World's Fair, which added depth to the story.

    The book is both educational and entertaining, making it a great read.

Flavien Bonvin · Flavien Bonvin · 2024-07-08
captivating 4.50

The book masterfully intertwines the architectural marvels of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with the chilling crimes of a serial killer. The vivid portrayal of 1890s Chicago and the impact of the World's Fair is both captivating and educational.

Flavien Bonvin's review highlights the dual narrative of the book, which seamlessly blends the story of the World's Fair with the terrifying tale of a serial killer. They appreciate how the author brings the era to life, making the historical context as compelling as the criminal investigation. The review emphasizes the book's ability to balance detailed historical facts with a gripping story, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts and true crime fans alike. Bonvin also notes the vivid descriptions of Chicago during this transformative period, which add depth and richness to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    Captivating dual narrative of architectural marvel and serial killer's crimes

    Vivid portrayal of 1890s Chicago and the World's Fair's impact

    The book masterfully intertwines the architectural marvels of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with the chilling crimes of a serial killer

Thoughts from the Mountaintop · 2024-05-02
engaging 4.00

The book is praised for its engaging combination of historical events and a gripping crime story. The reviewer finds the narrative compelling and well-researched, making it a great read.

The reviewer from Thoughts from the Mountaintop finds The Devil in the White City to be a great read that effectively combines the historical significance of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with the chilling story of a serial killer. They appreciate the detailed research and the way the author brings the era to life, making the historical context as engaging as the criminal investigation. The review highlights the book's ability to balance multiple narratives, creating a rich and immersive reading experience. The reviewer also notes the vivid descriptions and the engaging storytelling that keep readers hooked.

Quick quotes

    The Devil in the White City was a great read that combined the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with a serial killer preying on the women who traveled

    The entire venture was almost a disaster, with delays, petty fighting, bad weather, and more delays, but it was ultimately a massive success

    This is a well written book that crosses two related subjects - one, the world's fair, and two, a serial killer

Hallie's Book Blog · 2021-04-27
fascinating 4.50

The reviewer praises the book for its non-gratuitous approach to detailing crimes while maintaining historical accuracy.

This review highlights how the book effectively balances the disturbing facts of Holmes's crimes with a restrained narrative approach. The reviewer appreciates Larson's ability to present historical events without sensationalism, making the book both informative and engaging.

Quick quotes

    The facts of Holmes's crimes are obviously disturbing, but Larson steers clear of being graphic or gratuitous.

    People minded their own business.

    The book effectively balances the disturbing facts of Holmes's crimes with a restrained narrative approach.

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