The book combines two historical narratives: the planning of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and the crimes of H.H. Holmes, a serial killer. The reviewer praises the author's ability to blend history and entertainment, creating a dynamic and engaging read.
The book is a fascinating blend of history and true crime, focusing on two distinct but interconnected stories. The first narrative details the planning and execution of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, highlighting the architectural achievements and quirky exhibits. The second narrative follows the chilling story of H.H. Holmes, a serial killer who operated during the same period. The reviewer appreciates how the author, Erik Larson, skillfully weaves these two stories together, using dramatic techniques like foreshadowing to create a compelling and haunting read. The book is praised for its lively and engaging style, making historical events and figures come alive.
Quick quotes
Mr. Larson likes to embroider the past that way. So he relentlessly fuses history and entertainment to give this nonfiction book the dramatic effect of a novel, complete with abundant cross-cutting and foreshadowing.
As the book illustrates, this historical moment was ideal for the man calling himself H. H. Holmes, in honor of Sherlock.
The book's other path follows a prototypical American serial killer whose fictional counterparts are by now ubiquitous.