Book excerpt: Paul Revere is commonly remembered as the legendary hero of Longfellow's poem about his midnight ride. In this bright, informative biography, Giblin follows Paul Revere from his humble beginnings as a French immigrant's son, to his work as a silversmith and a rider for America's mounting insurgency against England. With precise, accessible prose, and stirring images of the period, Giblin chronicles Revere's many daring rides and his far-flung professional accomplishments. Along the way, he portrays a brave, compassionate, and multitalented American patriot. Illustrated with black-and-white archival photos and lithographs.