Nothing ever invented provides such sustenance, such infinite reward for time spent, as a good book.

— David McCullough

On a medical school professor noted for slowly, carefully interviewing the patient: "He taught the love of truth.

— David McCullough

One of the regrets of my life is that I did not study Latin. I'm absolutely convinced, the more I understand these eighteenth century people, that it was that grounding in Greek and Latin that gave them their sense of the classic virtues: the classic ideals of honor, virtue, the good society, and their historic examples of what they could try to live up to.

— David McCullough

Our obligations to our country never cease but with our lives. - John Adams

— David McCullough

Rather than literally burning the midnight oil, which he judged to be unhealthy, John Adams advised his son to make the most of college by developing an inquisitive outlook that would prompt him to get to know the most exceptional scholars and question them closely. "Ask them about their tutors, manner of teaching. Observe what books lie on their tables. Fall into questions of literature, science, or what you will.

— David McCullough

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

— David McCullough

Remove yourself, sir!

— David McCullough

Talk helps shape one's thoughts.

— David McCullough

The author perceives nuances of Abigail Adams' character in the occasional errors she makes in readily quoting John Milton. Rather than giving the observer a reason to quibble, they are evidence that she had absorbed Milton's works enough to feel comfortable quoting them from memory.

— David McCullough

The author perceptively outlines what might be an underrated aspect of his subject and of many others whose public achievements are of note – a "gift for friendship". McCullough says Adams, despite his towering intellect and curmudgeonly demeanor, had a soft heart for other people and a genuine interest in their particulars.

— David McCullough