In "In the Garden of Beasts: Love, Terror, and an American Family in Hitler's Berlin," Erik Larson chronicles the experiences of the Dodd family during their time in Nazi Germany. William E. Dodd, appointed as the U.S. ambassador to Germany, recognized early on the perilous intentions of Adolf Hitler and became one of the rare officials in the U.S. government to vocalize his concerns about the looming threat of fascism and war. His warnings fell on deaf ears amidst the prevailing attitude of appeasement.

The narrative captures both the political climate and the personal struggles of the Dodd family as they navigate life in Berlin. It highlights their interactions with a regime characterized by terror and oppression, while also illustrating the profound sense of denial prevalent in the West. Through their story, Larson paints a vivid picture of a critical period in history, showcasing the complexities of love and fear in a time of rampant tyranny.