It was David McCullough's 'The Johnstown Flood' that lit my imagination as to how I might one day go about writing book-length nonfiction, though my favorite of his books is 'Mornings on Horseback,' about the young Teddy Roosevelt.

In this quote, Erik Larson reflects on how David McCullough's book "The Johnstown Flood" sparked his imagination and inspired him to write book-length nonfiction. Larson credits McCullough's storytelling and approach to historical writing as the catalyst for his own interest in crafting long-form narratives. The way McCullough brought history to life in an engaging and accessible way motivated Larson to consider a similar path in his writing career.

Larson also expresses his admiration for McCullough's work "Mornings on Horseback," a biography about the young Teddy Roosevelt. While Larson acknowledges that "The Johnstown Flood" ignited his initial inspiration, he shares that "Mornings on Horseback" is his personal favorite among McCullough’s books. This reveals Larson's appreciation for McCullough's ability to dive into historical figures and capture their humanity, offering a deep, engaging narrative that blends history with personal stories.

The quote underscores the influence of McCullough on Larson's career, illustrating how one writer’s work can leave a lasting impact on another. Larson was drawn to McCullough's ability to weave compelling stories from real events, which in turn shaped his approach to writing. By highlighting the power of nonfiction to capture the complexities of history, Larson acknowledges how McCullough's storytelling techniques continue to inspire him.

Ultimately, Larson's reflection on McCullough's books demonstrates the way in which writers can influence each other. The inspiration he drew from McCullough’s works not only guided his own creative journey but also helped him see the potential in writing history and biography in a way that was both engaging and deeply informative.