Author Erik Larson imbues the incredible events surrounding the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair with such drama that readers may find themselves checking the book’s categorization to be sure that The Devil in the White City is not, in fact, a highly imaginative novel. Larson tells the stories of two men: Daniel H. Burnham, the architect responsible for the fair’s construction, and H.H. Holmes, a serial killer masquerading as a charming doctor. Burnham’s challenge was immense. In a short period of time, he was forced to overcome the death of his partner and numerous other obstacles to construct the famous “White City” around which the fair was built. His efforts to complete the project, and the fair’s incredible success, are skillfully related along with entertaining appearances by such notables as Buffalo Bill Cody, Susan B. Anthony, and Thomas Edison. The activities of the sinister Dr. Holmes, who is believed to be responsible for scores of murders around the time of the fair, are equally remarkable. He devised and erected the World’s Fair Hotel, complete with crematorium and gas chamber, near the fairgrounds and used the event as well as his own charismatic personality to lure victims. Combining the stories of an architect and a killer in one book, mostly in alternating chapters, seems like an odd choice but it works. The magical appeal and horrifying dark side of 19th-century Chicago are both revealed through Larson’s skillful writing. –John Moe

Author: Erik Larson
Paperback:  447 pages
Company: Vintage  (2004-02-10) (2004-02-10)
ISBN: 0375725601
List Price: $14.95
Amazon Price: $4.84
Used Price: $2.35

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The luxurious attraction of a tea party is starting to revitalize, especially as more and more people try to find ways to escape from their hectic hustle and bustle lifestyles. As the nostalgic allure of traditional English tea time grows, many people are beginning to host their own tea parties. There are some things to consider before setting up your party, however, so here are some ideas to get you on your way to hosting the perfect tea party.
First, it0s imperative you have fine china tea sets. Royal Patrician teapots are perfect if you really want to awe your guests. Using a beautiful set of Royal Patrician fine china will really set the mood properly and take you and your guests to the old days of royalty. Don0t use those old tea cups and saucers you used in college.

Consider setting up some sort of theme to make the event even more interesting. It0s exciting to dress up in old-fashion attire or act as characters from a book or movie, especially if it adds to the overall feel of your tea party. Think outside the box and give […]

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