In "In the Garden of Beasts," Erik Larson explores the atmosphere of fear and silence in the U.S. government during the rise of Hitler. Despite the alarming events unfolding in Germany, officials refrained from making any public comments regarding the trials or denouncing Hitler's regime. This silence raises questions about the underlying fears that prevented open discussion and action against the atrocities occurring in Europe.

The lack of response from American leaders suggests a troubling hesitance to confront the political realities of the time. Larson’s narrative highlights how fear can paralyze nations and influence their responses to international crises, leaving citizens to ponder what truths lay buried beneath the inaction and silence of their leaders.