Once I discovered the endless fascination of doing the research and of doing the writing, I knew I had found what I wanted to do in my life. Every book is a new journey. I never felt I was an expert on a subject as I embarked on a project.

Since September 11, it seems to me that never in our lifetime, except possibly in the early stages of World War II, has it been clearer that we have as a source of strength, a source of direction, a source of inspiration - our story.

There's an awful temptation to just keep on researching. There comes a point where you just have to stop, and start writing.

Real success is finding your lifework in the work that you love.

When I'm reading for my own pleasure, I read things other than history or archival material. I read a lot of fiction. I'm very fond of mysteries.

History isn't just what happened, but what happened to whom and why and what would have been different if the cast of characters had been different.

My wife, the star I steer by.