Chicago Through the Eyes of Readers

Chicago, a city with a rich history and diverse culture, has inspired many through literature. Readers shared their experiences of how certain books reshaped their understanding of the city.

A Tapestry of Voices

• Division Street by Studs Terkel showcased the city's diverse population.
• City of the Century by Donald L. Miller detailed the rapid growth of Chicago in the 19th century, transforming from a small settlement to a bustling metropolis.

The Lake's Significance

Living near Lake Michigan, one reader gained a new appreciation for the lake's importance and vulnerability after reading The Death and Life of the Great Lakes by Dan Egan. The book club selection provided a deeper understanding of this vital resource.

Political Landscapes

• Boss by Mike Royko connected the dots between the columnist's high school readings and college studies, offering a comprehensive view of Chicago's political landscape.
• An 1874 book, Chicago and Its Suburbs by Everett Chamberlin, revealed how the city and its suburbs have evolved, with areas like Schaumburg and Roselle playing significant roles.

Social Realities

• Our America: Life and Death on the South Side of Chicago by LeAlan Jones and Lloyd Newman opened the eyes of a suburban reader to the city's legacy of discrimination.
• Forever Open, Clear, and Free by Lois Wille brought to life the fight for Chicago's open lakefront, praising Montgomery Ward's efforts and expressing gratitude for the city's beautiful lakefront.

Dark Histories

• The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson unveiled a dark side of Chicago's past, surprising the reader with the city's lurid history.
• The Jungle by Upton Sinclair served as a wake-up call for a high school reader, providing a harsh reality check about adulthood and the world.

These books offer a glimpse into Chicago's past and present, highlighting its complexities and the diverse experiences of its residents.