How to Read the American Family Portrait Series
The American Family Portrait series by Jack Cavanaugh is a multi-generational Christian historical fiction saga. It follows the Morgan family through pivotal moments in history, bound together by an enduring faith and a family Bible passed down through the generations. Because the timeline of the family aligns directly with the release of the books, the publication order is also the chronological order. We recommend reading them in this order to fully appreciate the family lineage and the legacy of their faith.
American Family Portrait Books in Reading Order
- The Puritans (1994) - Sets the saga in motion in 1630. Drew Morgan navigates religious persecution in England and journeys to the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
- The Colonists (1994) - Follows Jared Morgan during the Great Awakening era of the 1720s–1740s in Boston and Philadelphia.
- The Patriots (1995) - Set during the Revolutionary War, following twin brothers Jacob and Esau Morgan as they find themselves on opposing sides of the conflict.
- The Adversaries (1996) - Explores the heartbreak of the Civil War through the eyes of the Morgan family as brothers face off on the battlefield.
- The Pioneers (1996) - Chronicles the westward migration and the Colorado gold rush era in Denver during the late 19th century.
- The Allies (1997) - Takes the family into the global conflict of World War I.
- The Victors (1998) - Follows the next generation of Morgans navigating the trials and battlefields of World War II.
- The Peacemakers (1999) - Explores the turbulent social changes of the 1960s and the Vietnam War.
- The Guardians (2008) - Brings the Morgan family saga into the modern era as they face 21st-century challenges to their faith and heritage.
Chronological vs. Publication Order
For some long-running series, readers must choose between reading in order of release or chronological setting. Fortunately, American Family Portrait makes it simple: the publication order perfectly matches the historical chronological progression. Starting with the colonization of New England in 1630 and ending in the modern era, each book builds upon the historical and spiritual foundation laid by the previous generation.
Spin-offs, Co-authored Works, and What to Read Next
While the American Family Portrait series itself stands alone with no direct spin-offs or sequels, fans of Jack Cavanaugh's historical style can explore his other works:
- Great Awakenings Series: Co-authored with Bill Bright, this historical series includes the novels Proof (2005), Fire (2005), Storm (2006), and Fury (2006).
- Death Watch (2005): A standalone suspense novel co-authored with Jerry Kuiper.
- Award-Winning Standalones: You can also look into his Christy Award-winning historical novels, such as While Mortals Sleep and His Watchful Eye.