"1776" by David McCullough

Historian David McCullough was asked by Fritz Lanham of the Houston Chronicle, "What are the biggest misconceptions American have about the American Revolution?" McCullough responded, "That it was short, not very bloody and carried out by people who looked like they were in a costume pageant."

In short, read this book! McCullough is not only an outstanding historian, but an excellent story-teller. Thanks to him, I have a new appreciation for those who gave so much for our liberty and will never celebrate July 4th the same again.