You're probably going to be given a reading list that will keep you busy for years. My suggestions...
Bernard Bailyn, Ideological Origins of the American Revolution. According to Bailyn, the leaders of the Revolution thought that the British government was conspiring to deprive them of their liberties and establish despotism. (The only book you need to read on Watergate, too.)
Piers Mackesy, The War for America 1775-1783. The American Revolution from the British standpoint as one theater in a world war with France.
For cultural and technical history, Daniel Boorstin's books: The Discoverers; The Creators; The Seekers. And while you are reading Boorstin, be sure to read The Image: A Guide to Pseudo-Events in America so you can understand current events.
For English background on the Founders, The Lion and the Throne: The Life and Times of Sir Edward Coke: 1552-1634, by Catherine Drinker Bowen. The battle for liberty in England.
The Maritime History of Massachusetts, 1783-1860, by Samuel Eliot Morison. Specialized but a fascinating view of an era in which limited communications meant much less centralized control.
Amazon loves you all for the months and years ahead! : )