Erik Larson is a writer, journalist and novelist. Nominated for a Pulitzer prize for investigative journalism on The Wall Street Journal, he has taught non-fiction writing at San Francisco State and Johns Hopkins.
THE #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER 'An enthralling page-turner' O: The Oprah Magazine 'Fresh, fast and deeply moving ... Larson's deft portraits show the essential connection that words created between the powerful and the powerless, capturing the moments that defined life for millions struggling to survive the decisions of a few' New York Times Book Review 'There are countless books about World War II, but there's only one Erik Larson ... There are many things to admire about The Splendid and the Vile, but chief among them is Larson's electric writing. The book reads like a novel, and even though everyone (hopefully) knows how the war ultimately ended, he keeps the reader turning the pages with his gripping prose.' NPR 'A particularly gripping read, written with bounce and brio. Larson pulls together vivid vignettes - some moving, some amusing, a few grim ... A fine writer of narrative nonfiction history.' Robbie Millen, Times 'This book is peppered with eye-popping details ... A deeply compelling work of history ... Without resorting to heroism, it makes one long powerfully for real leadership' Lit Hub 'I have an early copy of this book on my desk and idly began reading the first pages-and suddenly time disappeared.' Seattle Times 'Larson's skill at integrating vast research and talent for capturing compelling human dramas culminate in an inspirational portrait of one of history's finest, most fearless leaders' Booklist (starred review) 'A captivating history of Churchill's heroic year, with more than the usual emphasis on his intimates.' Kirkus Reviews (starred review) 'Nonfiction king Erik Larson is back.' PopSugar