The MT 250 Commission's February 2026’s book selection is The Remarkable Cause: A Novel of James Lovell and the Crucible of the Revolution, by Jean C. O’Connor, a historical fiction novel based on primary source research. It tells a true story of James Lovell, a teacher at the Boston Latin School during the years leading up to the first armed conflicts of the Revolutionary War. 

When James Lovell becomes a teacher at the Boston Latin School alongside his father, he realizes he will never agree with his father’s views about the growing British and American conflict. James desperately wants to help the American cause, but when he is arrested for spying, alone in a dark, cold cell of the Boston Stone Jail, his dreams seem a faint illusion.
 
​In icy March winds, pounded by the Americans’ cannon, General Howe evacuates British troops and Loyalists from Boston. James is forced into a ship bound for Halifax, while his father and family take passage for the British stronghold in the ship’s upper berth. In jail in Halifax, James can only write letters and pray for release, hoping General George Washington will hear his appeal.

The discussion will be led by Chris Averill, MT 250 Commission member. Jean O’Connor is a Helena, Montana native and a relative of James Lovell. She will join us for the discussion, and offer a brief presentation followed by conversation and Q&A.

Please register here to receive the Zoom link for the meeting. You will receive the link in the automatic confirmation email, and we will send out a reminder on the day of the event. Participants are encouraged, but not required, to read the book before the meeting.

Please join the Montana 250th Commission and the Montana Historical Society in this year-along series of virtual events designed to build excitement around The United States's 250th birthday in 2026. "Montana Reads: The Treasure State's Book Club" is a monthly online book discussion that will cover exciting topics and figures from United States, Montana, and Tribal history.

Each month, a member of the Montana 250th Commission will lead a presentation and discussion on books that explore myriad aspects of our shared history - from the Founding Fathers to Montana statesmen and women, cultural traditions to amazing innovation. These monthly discussions will feature conversations around the books' central themes, seeking applications to current challenges and initiatives facing our state and nation. Montanans are encouraged to participate in any and all of these events that they find interesting, and where possible to read the book in advance.

The Montana 250th Commission is excited to share these stories with all Montanans and will be bringing in special guests where possible to further bring this history to life. Events will be held on Zoom each second Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 7:30pm.

For further information on the Montana 250th Commission, please visit Montana 250 or email mt250@mt.gov.