Books Like...
"The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson delves into two parallel stories set during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. One storyline follows the ambitious architect Daniel Burnham as he strives to create the greatest World's Fair ever seen, while the other narrative focuses on Dr. H.H. Holmes, who becomes the first mass murderer in U.S. history. intricately weaves together the challenges of organizing the fair with the chilling crimes committed by Holmes, creating a captivating blend of history and true crime. Readers are taken on a journey through the bustling city of Chicago, where the grandeur of the fair contrasts with the darkness of Holmes' actions, all presented in a narrative that reads like a suspense novel.
If you liked The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America, here are the top 100 books to read next:
'Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI' by David Grann delves into the disturbing history of the Osage tribe in Oklahoma, who were targeted for their wealth derived from oil reserves on their land. As mysterious deaths plague the tribe, the narrative uncovers a vast conspiracy orchestrated by local whites to steal the tribal wealth. The involvement of the newly formed FBI, led by ex Texas rangers, sheds light on the depths of corruption and greed that characterized this dark period in American history. intricately weaves together the detailed accounts of murders, investigations, and the systematic exploitation of the Osage people, leaving readers shocked by the extent of institutional evil and racial injustice.
Grann's storytelling skillfully intertwines the historical events with a gripping narrative, highlighting the horrors faced by the Osage tribe and the relentless pursuit of justice by the FBI agents. The detailed research and investigative reporting provide a comprehensive understanding of the crimes committed against the Osage people, while also shedding light on the limitations of the rule of law during that era. not only uncovers a forgotten chapter of American history but also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring presence of greed, corruption, and racial discrimination in society.
In April, millions of tiny flowers spread over the blackjack hills and vast prairies in the Osage territory of Oklahoma. There are Johnny-jump-ups and spring beauties and little bluets. The Osage writ...- #2
Save:'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote is a meticulously researched and haunting account of the Clutter family murders in 1959, where Herb and Bonnie Clutter and two of their children were brutally killed by Perry Smith and Dick Hickcock. The book delves into the events leading up to the crime, the aftermath, and the impact on the small Kansas town of Holcomb. Capote's writing style is described as journalistic, factual, and methodical, evoking fear and suspense in the reader, while also providing a detailed exploration of the characters' motivations and personalities.
Capote's narrative alternates between reporting and storytelling, providing a gripping and enthralling read that raises questions about morality, journalism, and the death penalty. The book is praised for its detailed reconstruction of the murders, the trial, and the execution of the killers, all presented in a sensitive and empathetic manner that allows the reader to understand the complexities of the case and the individuals involved.
The village of Holcomb stands on the high wheat plains of western Kansas, a lonesome area that other Kansans call “out there.” Some seventy miles east of the Colorado border, the countryside, with its... Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larson is a meticulously researched and immersive account of the sinking of the Lusitania during World War I. The book delves into the political backdrop of the time, intertwining the narratives of the passengers, the submarine commander, and the events in Washington DC and London. Larson's narrative style weaves together multiple viewpoints, providing a detailed examination of the tragic event and its aftermath, while also exploring the potential conspiracy theories surrounding the sinking.
THE SMOKE FROM SHIPS AND THE EXHALATIONS OF THE river left a haze that blurred the world and made the big liner seem even bigger, less the product of human endeavor than an escarpment rising from a pl...Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt is a creative non-fiction book that delves into the eccentric characters and atmosphere of Savannah, Georgia in the 1970s and 80s. The book uses a celebrated murder trial as a backdrop to introduce the reader to the city and its colorful inhabitants. Berendt's writing style is praised for capturing the essence of Savannah and its quirky residents, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
The book is a combination of a travelogue about Savannah, Georgia, and a glimpse into its upper-middle-class society through the lens of a murder in their midst. It offers an atmospheric portrayal of the city, showcasing its unique charm and the intriguing personalities that inhabit it, all while exploring the infamous slaying of Danny Hansford and the multiple murder trials of his lover, Jim Williams.
I had heard Jim Williams’s name mentioned often during the six months I had lived in Savannah. The house was one reason, but there were others. He was a successful dealer in antiques and a restorer of...'Into Thin Air' by Jon Krakauer is a gripping personal account of the disastrous 1996 Mount Everest expedition, where several climbers lost their lives due to a sudden storm. Krakauer, a journalist and experienced climber, vividly describes the harrowing journey to the summit, highlighting the extreme physical and psychological challenges faced by the climbers. Through his detailed narration, Krakauer delves into the commercialization of Himalayan adventures, the allure of climbing the world's highest peak, and the tragic consequences of nature's unpredictability.
The book provides a chilling insight into the calamitous events that unfolded on Everest, showcasing Krakauer's exceptional storytelling skills and his ability to evoke intense emotions in readers. The narrative transitions from a tale of adventure to a heart-wrenching story of survival and loss, offering a profound exploration of human nature, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of conquering the unconquerable.
Rob Hall New Zealand, leader and head guide Mike Groom Australia, guide Andy “Harold” Harris New Zealand, guide Helen Wilton New Zealand, Base Camp manager Dr. Caroline Mackenzie New Zealand, Base Cam...- #6
Save:Once, at the dawn of a very dark time, an American father and his daughter found themselves suddenly transported from their snug home in Chicago to the heart of Hitler's Berlin. In 1933, William E. Dodd became America's ambassador to Germany amidst Hitler's rise to power. Dodd and Martha, his daughter, initially sympathized with the Nazi's, downplaying the violence against Jews. Throughout most of the book, readers are shown a detailed look at Germany in 1933-1934 through the experience of Ambassador Dodd, a university professor from Chicago. Larson weaves together a very particular kind of story about the Dodd family and 1930s Hitler in Germany, showing the chilling story of William Dodd, Ambassador to Germany from 1933 to 1937.
Now chairman of the history department, Dodd had been a professor at the university since 1909, recognized nationally for his work on the American South and for a biography of Woodrow Wilson. He was s... "Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland" by Patrick Radden Keefe delves into the complexities of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, focusing on the abduction and murder of Jean McConville, a mother of ten, by the IRA. Through personal histories and oral accounts, the book weaves a narrative of violence, betrayal, and trauma, shedding light on the impact of the conflict on both victims and perpetrators. Keefe's writing style is described as engaging, immersive, and well-researched, providing a comprehensive overview of the Troubles and the key figures involved, such as Gerry Adams, Dolours Price, and Brendan Hughes.
Jean McConville was thirty-eight when she disappeared, and she had spent nearly half her life either pregnant or recovering from childbirth. She brought fourteen children to term and lost four of them...'Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith' by Jon Krakauer is a nonfiction account that delves into the fanatical history of the Mormons, focusing on a murder in the 1980s that sheds light on the dark side of the religion. The book provides a detailed exploration of Mormonism, from its origins to its modern-day fundamentalist practices, intertwining historical events with a contemporary crime to give readers a comprehensive look at the religion's evolution. Krakauer's writing style is captivating, blending true crime elements with religious history to create a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
And it shall come to pass that I, the Lord God, will send one mighty and strong, holding the scepter of power in his hand, clothed with light for a covering, whose mouth shall utter words, eternal wor...- #9
Save:'I'll Be Gone in the Dark: One Woman's Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer' by Michelle McNamara is a true crime book that delves into the author's relentless pursuit to catch the Golden State Killer, a notorious serial killer and rapist. Despite her sudden death, McNamara's meticulous research and dedication are evident throughout the book, as she weaves together details of the crimes, the investigation, and her own personal obsession with the case. The narrative provides a chilling account of the killer's actions, the impact on the victims, and the tireless efforts of those seeking justice.
The book is a blend of true crime storytelling and memoir, offering readers a glimpse into McNamara's journey to uncover the truth behind the Golden State Killer. Through her writing, McNamara humanizes the victims, sheds light on the investigative process, and showcases her unwavering determination to bring closure to a case that haunted California for decades. Despite the book being unfinished at the time of her death, the narrative captures the essence of McNamara's pursuit and the eventual arrest of the suspect, leaving readers both captivated and haunted by the story.
AFTER PROCESSING THE HOUSE, THE POLICE SAID TO DREW WITTHUHN, “It’s yours.” The yellow tape came down; the front door closed. The impassive precision of badges at work had helped divert attention from... During WWI and WWII, young women worked in factories painting clock dials with radium, unaware of the dangers. As they fell ill, facing bone deterioration and tumors, they fought for justice against the corporations that denied blame. The book outlines their struggles, the development of worker protection laws, and the lasting impact on medical knowledge.
Katherine Schaub had a jaunty spring in her step as she walked the brief four blocks to work. It was 1 February 1917, but the cold didn’t bother her one bit; she had always loved the winter snows of h...
