REVIEW: The Devil in the White City

The Devil in the White City
Author: Erik Larson

This book is so much more than I expected!! Interested in learning more about serial killer H.H.Holmes and his murderous ways in Chicago in the late 1800's, I was pleasantly surprised that this book is more about the 1893 World's Fair than about the serial killer. I found myself enjoying the history of the planning, building and showmanship of the World's Fair even more than the horrific facts about Holmes' activities. From the AC power provided by Nikola Tesla that lit up the entire grounds to the huge wheel designed by George Ferris, the World's Fair was a wondrous spectacle that brought hundreds of thousands of people into the city. An unintended result was that the Fair also brought many young women new to the city and unchaperoned for the first time....some of whom fell victim to the charms and murderous intent of H.H. Holmes.

I listened to the audio version of this book. The audiobook is just over 15 hours long and narrated by Scott Brick. I like Brick's voice, and he read at a nice even pace. I have hearing loss, but had no problem hearing and understanding the audio. Larson obviously did copious amounts of research into the planning, construction and details of the World's Fair. He gives so much detail about all aspects of the event, and of H.H.Holmes' life, crimes, capture and subsequent prosecution and execution. Great story!

Note of caution: This book is Non-fiction, and not written like a narrative story. There are lots of facts and information about the Fair, its planning and engineering, the events, people, etc.....plus copious details about H.H. Holmes. This does not read like a fictional novel or story!  Readers who don't enjoy historical accounts with lots and lots of details...this might not be the book for you. History buffs or those who love great details like how many people could ride the first Ferris wheel at one time or how many people attended the Fair each day, etc....will LOVE this!! I sure did!

Erik Larson has written several other non-fiction narratives about historical events including Dead Wake (about the sinking of the Lusitania) and Thunderstruck (about the capture of the murderer Dr. Crippen).