SUMMARY

THE DEVIL IN THE WHITE CITY

BASED ON THE BOOK BY ERIK LARSON

SUMMARY WRITTEN BY: BRIEF BOOKS PUBLISHING

CONTENT

The Genesis of the White City

Burnham's Vision and Obstacles

The Landscape of Dreams

A City of Wonders

Shadows in the Black City

Webs of Deceit

The Lure of the Fair

Cruelty Revealed

Justice and Remembrance

Analysis

ABOUT THE ORIGINAL BOOK

The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America by Erik Larson intertwines two narratives: the construction of the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago and the chilling story of H.H. Holmes, a serial killer. As Daniel Burnham and his team race to create the magnificent "White City," Holmes constructs his elaborate "castle".

The book explores the contrast between the fair's dazzling optimism and the dark underbelly of crime and deception. Holmes exploits the opportunities presented by the influx of visitors, luring victims to his hotel, while Detective Frank Geyer meticulously investigates Holmes's crimes, working to bring him to justice. The novel delves into themes of ambition, good versus evil, and the hidden darkness that can exist alongside progress and innovation.

© 2025 Brief Books Publishing (Audiobook): 9798347905706

Release date

Audiobook: March 7, 2025