1776 Book Club
With Head of School, Mr. Runey
As we approach an important milestone in our nation’s history, the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, I’m inviting students, faculty, and families to join me in a shared reading experience as a school community.
I’ll be reading 1776 by David McCullough over the next few weeks, and I hope you’ll join me. This book offers a compelling look at a defining year in the American Revolution, following General George Washington and the Continental Army through moments of challenge, uncertainty, and perseverance with stories that feel surprisingly relatable even today.
Whether you dive in on your own, read with your family, or follow along alongside friends at school, I hope you’ll consider reading along with me.
About the Book
1776 brings to life the events and decisions that shaped the early days of the American Revolution. McCullough’s writing helps us understand not only what happened, but the character and resolve of those who lived through it.
For a more visual experience, an illustrated edition is available. It includes historical artwork, portraits, maps, and replicas of primary source documents such as letters, paired with an abridged text for an immersive look at Washington’s leadership, the retreat from Brooklyn, and the victory at Trenton.
To create a space for reflection and conversation, we’ll host four Thursday evening Zoom calls, all from 5:00–5:45pm:
- Kickoff: Thursday, April 16
- Section 1 Discussion: Thursday, April 23
- Section 2 Discussion: Thursday, May 14
- Section 3 + Finish: Thursday, May 30
Zoom Link (same for all four sessions): https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88605392157?pwd=QXimbmmv6l9nsuO09ac16DEQ3sFAYb.1
Celebrate Your Reading
To make it even more fun, the first 10 students in each division (Lower, Middle, Upper School) to finish the book will be invited to a special end-of-year lunch. Just send an email to the office when you finish—first come, first served.
Reflection
As you read, I encourage you to think about the moments that stand out to you, the choices these individuals made, and what resonates today.
I’m looking forward to reading with you, hearing your thoughts in our discussions, and celebrating together the stories that connect us to this pivotal moment in history.
Grace and peace,
Mike Runey
Head of School
Portsmouth Christian Academy
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