We created the DoSayGive Summer Book Club eight years ago with a simple mission: to help families discover the kind of children’s books that nourish young hearts and minds. The kinds of books that spark imagination, cultivate curiosity and virtue, and slow children down long enough to wonder, dream, and fall in love with reading. The kind of books that we grew up with but were no longer front and center at the big box book stores and even school book fairs…
Over the years, thousands of families have joined us each summer to enjoy classic stories, simple screen-free activities, and meaningful moments together. What started as a small seasonal tradition has become one of the most beloved things we do at DoSayGive.
And now, as our country approaches the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, we wanted to do something to celebrate and encourage even more families to pursue excellence when it comes to what stories they are instilling in their children’s hearts and minds.
So for the very first time in nine years, we are offering our newest book club completely FREE in celebration and in honor of our country’s birthday. It is also our way of saying thank you for all these years of supporting and sharing our content.
Why a 1776 Themed Book Club?
Many children today are growing up disconnected not only from great literature, but also from the story of our nation itself. At a time when many students graduate without even a basic understanding of civics or America’s founding, we wanted to create something simple and joyful that helps families begin changing that trajectory at home.
The 1776 Family Book Club was created to help children better understand the bravery, sacrifice, perseverance, and faith of those who founded and fought for our country – and ultimately to cultivate gratitude for the freedoms and blessings we enjoy today.
Above all, we hope it inspires gratitude to God for the privilege of living in this country and encourages children to see that courage, virtue, service, and character are qualities still worth pursuing.
Why Great Books Matter
At DoSayGive, we believe the books we place before children matter deeply. In a world filled with screens, noise, and watered-down entertainment, we want children to experience beautiful illustrations, rich language, meaningful stories, and books that truly stimulate their imaginations.
While there are many books about America’s founding, we’ve intentionally curated many timeless titles that are not always found on trendy bookstore tables or big box store end caps. These are books that enrich children’s minds, expand vocabulary, cultivate curiosity, and leave lasting impressions on their hearts. It’s a curated list but there are many more we hope you discover through these authors and illustrators!
More Than a Book List
Like all our summer book clubs, this isn’t just a list of books. Inside the 1776 Family Book Club, you’ll find curated patriotic book recommendations paired with simple, meaningful activities designed to help families connect with the stories they are reading.
You’ll find ideas for:
- Patriotic crafts and hands-on projects
- Screen-free summer fun
- Cooking activities inspired by the books
- Outdoor adventures and neighborhood fun
- American history and civics connections
- Music, artwork, and poetry appreciation
- Meaningful service opportunities
- Family conversations that cultivate gratitude and curiosity
Whether you do one activity or all of them, our hope is simply that this resource helps families slow down and create meaningful memories together this summer.
A Summer of Enrichment & Celebration
Throughout June, we’ll also be sending those who download our book club additional ways to celebrate America’s founding and upcoming 250th birthday as a family.
Remember, this is a flexible, go-at-your-own-pace book club designed for all ages. Enjoy with siblings, grandchildren, neighbors, or summer playgroups!
Our Hope for This Summer
We hope this book club helps children learn more about our country’s founding, develop of love of reading, build curiosity and character, and create sweet summer memories!
Download the book list and get ready for a patriotic summer today!
Happy reading, happy celebrating, and happy summer! 🇺🇸
What do you think?