3 Must-Read Books When Moving to Chicago

February 22, 2016

Whether you rent, download or buy these books – they are must-reads before moving to the Windy City. These books will offer you insight including the history, culture and life of someone living in Chicago. They will help you get settled into the city with greater appreciation and ease.

The Devil in the White City: By Erik Larson

A classic Chicago-read, this book intertwines two story-lines – one, the building and planning of the 1983 World’s Fair and the second, the story of a con and serial killer. The suspenseful plot line is laced with intriguing Chicago history and details around, what was called, the first American Serial Killer.

The Jungle: Uptown Sinclair

This muckraking story – sheds light on the meatpacking industry in Chicago in the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries. The story follows an immigrant family and offers a true look at the conditions, practices and fails of the meat-packing industry. It got so much attention, the government sent investigators to the city, which eventually led to the passing of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 and the creation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The Newcomer’s Handbook for Moving to and Living in Chicago: Including Evanston, Oak Park, Schaumburg, Wheaton and Naperville

Now that you’ve made yourself familiar with some gritty Chicago history, you might want to invest in a real-life day-to-day guide. This book is in its 6^th edition and offers readers valuable insights into knowing the city in and out. It includes geographic maps, profiles on over a dozen neighborhoods/communities, chapters about finding a place to live, moving, money and getting settled. There’s also information about childcare, education, green living, shopping, sports, weather, beaches and getting involved.

If you have other books you think could benefit newcomers to the city, please leave comments below and we would love to feature them in our next article.

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