In The Demon of Unrest, Erik Larson brings to life the pivotal five months between the election of Abraham Lincoln and the start of the Civil War—and explores how the passions of the North and South came to focus on a lonely federal fortress in Charleston Harbor: Fort Sumter.

Larson will take us behind the scenes of his craft and process, sharing everything from how he chooses his topics and his writing routine to his favorite—and not-so-favorite—characters in the book.

Beloved by Chicago history buffs for The Devil in the White City, Larson has given us in The Demon of Unrest a political horror story that serves as a dark reminder that we often don’t see a cataclysm coming until it’s too late. A copy of the book is included in your ticket purchase. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of the forces that led America to the brink.

A book signing will follow this program.

• This program is generously underwritten by the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
• This program is presented in partnership with the Institute for the Humanities at the University of Illinois at Chicago.
• We are pleased to partner with the Seminary Co-op Bookstores, the country’s first not-for-profit bookstore.
• General public tickets include a copy of The Demon of Unrest, which you pick up at the event by showing the book voucher in your receipt.
• Students, Teachers, and Charter Humanist Member tickets do not include a book, but anyone can add a book to their cart when selecting their tickets.
• Please visit our FAQ for more information.