The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson is a meticulously researched nonfiction book that captures the magic of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the darkness of serial killer H.H. Holmes. The book intercuts chapters about the fair's construction and Holmes' crimes, providing a fascinating and darkly engrossing narrative.
The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson is a meticulously researched nonfiction book that captures the magic of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the darkness of serial killer H.H. Holmes. The book intercuts chapters about the fair's construction and Holmes' crimes, providing a fascinating and darkly engrossing narrative. The fair's construction was a monumental task, with architects and workers overcoming numerous challenges to create a spectacular event. Meanwhile, Holmes built his own building, the Holmes Castle, filled with peculiar corridors and traps, where he carried out his dark plans. The book highlights the experiences of Director of Works Daniel Burnham, who oversaw the fair's design and construction. The story is both inspiring and disturbing, as it delves into the details of Holmes' crimes and the reasons why people trusted him despite his monstrous actions.
Quick quotes
The book unfolds primarily with intercutting chapters about what’s happening with the World’s Fair versus what’s happening with Holmes as he constructs his own building full of peculiar corridors, soundproof rooms, and traps… and then carries out his own dark plans.
This was during a day and age when people just didn’t ask questions like they do today. There was little city or government oversight into citizen’s activities.
It makes you wonder — had Holmes entered your orbit, would you have recognized the danger of it, or would you have happily trusted him?