Will I love The Johnstown Flood?

The book illustrated how seemingly small decisions or actions can eventually contribute to catastrophic events. Even though it was a work of nonfiction, there was much drama in this book. The reader knew the ultimate outcome, but there was great mystery in the causes and sequence of events that led to this outcome. At the same time, the book provided an inspirational tale of human survival and persistence, as the people in this town refused to give in to the unprecedented tragedy that practically destroyed the town.

I’ve always loved writing and learning about history. And no one exemplifies the marriage of these preoccupations better than McCullough. With his first book, he didn’t set out to do groundbreaking research - he just wanted to tell a great story. 

In The Johnstown Flood, McCullough does just that.

The book tells the story of one this once flourishing town that was destroyed when a nearby dam gave way, and a deluge swept away homes, businesses, and people. 

Throughout the book, McCullough brought these poor souls back to life through great prose and an ability to connect with his subjects.… show more.

McCullough is one of my favorite storytelling historians. This narrative is an effortless balance of historical characters, an intriguing story, and immersion in a bygone era. The lessons he uncovers in the dam-burst tragedy that struck Johnstown, Pennsylvania are as relevant today as they were in 1889. A lesson in the danger of complacency in regards to safety.