The book "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson delves into the 1893 World's Fair held in Chicago, intertwining the stories of the fair and notorious serial killer H.H. Holmes. This grand event served as a showcase of American ingenuity and culture, drawing millions of visitors and leaving a lasting impact on the nation. The notable presence of President Benjamin Harrison at the grand opening highlighted the fair's significance and the pride it brought to the country.

Larson weaves a narrative that captures both the architectural marvels of the fair and the darker undercurrents of crime taking place in the city. As Holmes exploited the excitement around the fair to lure victims, the book presents a chilling contrast between the celebration of progress and the lurking presence of evil. This duality enhances the historical context while illustrating the complexities of 19th-century America.