Step into the sweeping saga of The Kent Family Chronicles, where America’s birth unfolds through the eyes of one unforgettable family! Penned by John Jakes, this historical fiction masterpiece spans eight novels, weaving personal triumphs and tragedies against the backdrop of the American Revolution to the post-Civil War era. With over 3.5 million copies sold per book, it’s a vibrant tapestry of history and heart that captivates readers.
Imagine following a family through the fiery crucible of a new nation—love, betrayal, and courage collide as the Kents navigate wars, societal shifts, and their own ambitions. Jakes’ knack for blending real historical figures with fictional drama makes this series a must-read for history buffs and story lovers alike.
How The Kent Family Chronicles Began
In the 1970s, as America celebrated its bicentennial, John Jakes partnered with Lyle Engel of Book Creations, Inc., to craft a series commemorating the Declaration of Independence’s 200th anniversary. Inspired to bring history to life, Jakes envisioned a multi-generational epic following the Kent family. His meticulous research and storytelling prowess turned The Kent Family Chronicles, also called The American Bicentennial Series, into a cultural phenomenon, with each novel hitting bestseller lists.
The Heart of The Kent Family Chronicles
The series kicks off with The Bastard (1974), introducing Phillipe Charboneau, a Frenchman who becomes Philip Kent in America. As he joins the Revolutionary cause, he meets icons like Benjamin Franklin and Paul Revere. The Rebels (1975) follows Philip at the Battle of Bunker Hill, cementing his dedication to his new homeland. The Seekers (1975) shifts to Abraham Kent, Philip’s son, as he ventures into the untamed West, while The Americans (1979) closes the saga, with Will Kent striving to unite a fractured family in the late 19th century.
Themes of resilience, identity, and the cost of ambition pulse through the series. Jakes masterfully captures the era’s turmoil—revolution, westward expansion, and Civil War—while exploring personal struggles like family loyalty and moral dilemmas. The vivid settings, from Boston’s cobblestone streets to frontier wilderness, immerse readers in a nation forging its destiny. Fans praise the series for its thrilling mix of romance, drama, and historical accuracy.
Why The Kent Family Chronicles Resonates
The Kent Family Chronicles redefined historical fiction, earning Jakes the title “godfather of historical novelists” from the Los Angeles Times. Its blend of fact and fiction educated and entertained, inspiring readers to explore America’s past. The first three books—The Bastard, The Rebels, and The Seekers—were adapted into TV miniseries in the late 1970s, broadening its reach. Decades later, fans still cherish the series for its emotional depth and vivid storytelling, with many rereading the books multiple times.
- Publication Years: 1974–1979
- Number of Books: 8
- Notable Achievement: Jakes was the first author with three books on the New York Times bestseller list in 1975 (The Rebels, The Seekers, The Furies)
Grab The Bastard and dive into The Kent Family Chronicles’ thrilling world of history and heart!