This first book in the Young Historians series introduces eight Revolutionary War-era figures. -Ben Franklin is sad,- Kenison begins. -No one has time to fly kites with him today.- From there, she shows what-s keeping his fellow patriots occupied (-Betsy Ross is busy sewing a flag. Paul Revere is busy riding a horse-) while building up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It-s a narrow glimpse into early America-necessarily perhaps-and readers may have trouble telling these historical figures apart (they have the pared-down look of Fisher-Price-s Little People). A closing spread brings in more details about Washington, Jefferson, Hamilton, and the others, but these remain highly simplified portraits. Up to age 3. Agent: Anna Olswanger, Olswanger Literary. (July)