Erik Larson Books

Erik Larson has written for the Wall Street Journal, Time and other publications. He’s also the author of multiple books, including In the Garden of Beasts, Dead Wake, Thunderstruck and Isaac’s Storm.

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1
 Books: The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson

The Devil in the White City

Erik Larson
Murder, Magic and Madness at the Fair that Changed America
3.8 (46 ratings)
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What's The Devil in the White City about?

The Devil in the White City (2003) takes you to Chicago in the 1890s, when the growing city was the host of the World’s Fair amid a time of social upheaval and serious crime. These blinks blend a story of exciting American innovation with the unspeakable acts of one of the world’s first serial killers.

Who should read The Devil in the White City?

  • Readers with a taste for the creepy
  • True-crime fans
  • American history buffs

2
 Books: Isaac's Storm by Erik Larson

Isaac's Storm

Erik Larson
A Man, a Time, and the Deadliest Hurricane in History
4.2 (37 ratings)
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What's Isaac's Storm about?

Isaac’s Storm (1999) is a gripping account of the hurricane that devastated Galveston, Texas on September 8, 1900. Just as Galveston was becoming a world-class city, a storm arrived with little warning and crushed many of the community’s hopes and ambitions.

Who should read Isaac's Storm?

  • Anyone moved by the indomitable power of nature
  • Fans of historical nonfiction
  • Storm chasers

3
 Books: The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

The Splendid and the Vile

Erik Larson
A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz
4.7 (132 ratings)
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What's The Splendid and the Vile about?

The Splendid and the Vile (2020) is a meticulously researched account of Winston Churchill’s first year of leadership. Beginning in 1940, he led the country through France’s surrender, the miraculous rescue at Dunkirk, and the Nazi air force’s bombing blitz of the UK, which killed over 44,000 Brits. Through it all, he retained his sense of humor and charming eccentricities that ensure him a fond place in our collective memory.

Who should read The Splendid and the Vile?

  • World War II nerds
  • People interested in eccentric histories
  • Anyone curious about Winston Churchill’s legacy

4
 Books: Thunderstruck by Erik Larson

Thunderstruck

Erik Larson
4.4 (43 ratings)
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What's Thunderstruck about?

Thunderstruck (2006) is the true story of two seemingly unrelated people, an inventor and a murderer. Set in Edwardian England, the lives of the men intersect in one of the most suspenseful criminal cases in history.

Who should read Thunderstruck?

  • History buffs
  • Narrative nonfiction lovers
  • Erik Larson fans

What's In the Garden of Beasts about?

In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson transports readers to 1930s Berlin, where a family becomes entangled in the web of Nazi Germany. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Larson paints a vivid picture of the political and social climate, offering a chilling account of the rise of Hitler and the world that allowed it to happen.

Who should read In the Garden of Beasts?

  • History enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of Nazi Germany
  • Readers interested in diplomatic and political history
  • Those who enjoy non-fiction narratives that bring the past to life

6
 Books: Dead Wake by Erik Larson

Dead Wake

Erik Larson

What's Dead Wake about?

Dead Wake by Erik Larson is a gripping account of the sinking of the Lusitania during World War I. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Larson brings to life the events leading up to the tragedy and its profound impact on history. This book offers a fascinating blend of maritime history, military strategy, and personal narratives, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the untold stories of war.

Who should read Dead Wake?

  • History enthusiasts interested in maritime disasters
  • Readers who enjoy compelling narratives of real-life events
  • People curious about the impact of World War I on civilian life