The Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence is the second book in The Amazing Days of Abby Hayes series that was first published on August 1, 2000. The name is a play on the actual Declaration of Independence.

Synopsis
Abby wants to go to the Fall Festival with her friends, but her parents tell her she can't go. Abby then tries to prove to her parents that she's mature by cleaning house and taking care of her brother Alex.

Plot
The Hayes family is in the living room having TV trouble, with Alex trying to fix the TV, Eva and Isabel having an argument, and Abby trying to write in her journal. Alex manages to get the TV working and everyone watches the recap of the Harvest Festival from the previous year. When asked by Mrs. Olivia Hayes, Abby objects taking Alex and instead wants to ride bikes to the festival with her friends.

Abby's response to Olivia's question draws in shocked responses, with her father Paul agreeing to Abby's choice under one condition: Abby has to prove to her parents that she is mature and more responsible. As a result of this change, Alex was upset and both Eva and Isabel reluctantly decide to take him to the Harvest Festival, but he insists on going with Abby. Following the meeting, everyone goes back to their businesses.

The next day, Abby's best friend Jessica comes to take her to school. Downstairs, Abby grabs a bagel and heads out of the door with Jessica. At school the next day, Brianna was talking with her schoolmates about her birthday party.