John Murphy, The Great Fire (2006)
This book may be aimed at young readers, but it takes an adult-look at the fire. The cause, the response, and the effect on the city are all intelligently examined. First-hand accounts and photos enhance the quality narrative.
Karen Sawislak, Smoldering City: Chicagoans and the Great Fire, 1871–1874 (1995)
Sawislak is a professional historian, but she knows how to tell a good story. This book is an authoritative yet engaging account of the fire and its significance. History students and casual readers will both find something of interest here.