If you, like me, are a fan of writer Erik Larson, then look no further for an entertaining non-fiction book that may shock you into turning page after page. Larson likes to take non-fiction topics and write them so they read like a novel.
The Devil in the White City is an interesting idea because it combines two true stories into one entertaining book. The stories take place in Chicago at the time of the World’s Columbian Exposition. One story is about the efforts that were required to make the exposition a reality. The second, and most shocking story, is a murder mystery involving some of the people who were attracted to Chicago for the exposition. I think Larsen did a good job of integrating the two stories.
I found it fascinating the way he described life in 1893. In those days, it was easy for someone to disappear without a trace. Or become a completely new person without invoking suspicion. It is something that would be nearly impossible in today’s world.
Despite its best-seller status, I noticed that The Devil in the White City gets mixed reviews from a lot of readers. I suspect one of the reasons is that the entire story takes place in Chicago, and the author provides painstaking detail to some things that are unique to Chicago.
Since I grew up in Chicago and was familiar with many of the neighborhoods, buildings, and somewhat sordid history of Chicago, I found it interesting. For me, it was easy to picture the settings and the ongoings that he so clearly describes. I learned so much about the history of my hometown.
But even if you are not from Chicago, there is a lot to enjoy in this macabre murder mystery. If the book were written as a fictional novel, it could have taken place anywhere and still be a great story. The fact that it is non-fiction makes it even more enthralling.
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Production for the two film adaptations is still pending. A mini-series is being developed by Hulu, and a feature film version is taking shape at 20th Century Studios. No release dates have been announced for either version.
I highly recommend reading the book by Erik Larson–before Hollywood overplays the legend–as it will likely be the truest version of the stories.
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