America250 Reading List: A Journey Through Stories that Shaped a Nation

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Explore the America250 Reading List: A Journey Through Stories that Shaped a Nation

This Independence Day, PBS Books is proud to present the America250 Reading List—a curated literary journey that celebrates the path to American freedom and commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

As our nation prepares to mark 250 years of independence, we invite readers of all ages to reflect on the people, events, and ideals that forged the United States. This special reading list brings together compelling titles across three distinct genres—nonfiction, historical fiction, and children’s literature—to illuminate the courage, complexity, and conviction behind America’s founding.

📚 Nonfiction – Not Just for the History Enthusiast

Dive into meticulously researched works that provide powerful insights into the Revolution and the broader context of American independence that are written in a novelist style. These books reveal untold stories and broaden our understanding of the era—from George Washington’s leadership and the complexities of Indigenous and African American experiences, to the moral struggles that defined the fight for liberty.

Highlights include:

1776 by David McCullough
Founding Mothers and Ladies of Liberty by Cokie Roberts
African Founders by David Hackett Fischer
The First Conspiracy by Brad Meltzer
Benjamin Franklin: An American Life by Walter Isaacson

📖 Historical Fiction – For the Story Seekers

Experience the era of revolution through the eyes of unforgettable characters brought to life by gifted storytellers. These novels blend fact with fiction, immersing readers in personal dramas set against the backdrop of historical transformation. Whether following the bold disguise of a woman soldier or the trials of Eliza Hamilton, these stories add human depth to our nation’s founding.

Featured titles include:

A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon
My Dear Hamilton by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie
The Traitor’s Wife by Allison Pataki
America’s First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie
Tell the Bees That I Am Gone by Diana Gabaldon
The Hamilton Affair by Elizabeth Cobbs
📘 Children’s Books – For Young Patriots

Inspire the next generation with accessible, engaging, and age-appropriate books that bring the American Revolution to life. These titles are packed with colorful illustrations, fascinating facts, and heroic figures—from George Washington and Thomas Jefferson to the everyday kids and families who shaped history.

Perfect picks include:

History Smashers: The American Revolution by Kate Messner
Guts & Glory: The American Revolution by Ben Thompson
Washington, Adams, and Jefferson by C.A. Worman
Rebellion 1776 by Laurie Halse Anderson
The History of the American Revolution by Emma Carlson Berne

Whether you’re revisiting the founding ideals of our democracy or discovering them for the first time, the America250 Reading List offers something for every reader. We hope these books spark thoughtful conversation, deeper understanding, and a renewed appreciation for the values that continue to shape our great nation.

Explore the full list below and join us in celebrating 250 years of the American spirit—through the power of books.
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