Benjamin Franklin

Children's Literature

Reading this biography, young readers will be captivated by the story of his life and accomplishments. The text is easy to read and understand because it is not a factual list of information, but a narrative on his life. Young readers will learn many new things that are perhaps not covered in textbooks or classroom units. Some things that he is credited for are the Franklin stove, first mail delivery system, establishing the first volunteer fire department, and following a vegetarian diet. All his life, Benjamin Franklin was naturally curious and a learner. He was a voracious reader and had excellent writing skills, which should not come as a surprise due to the important historical documents that he helped write: the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The illustrations that accompany the text are friendly for the young reader. This biography includes a page of important dates in his life. 2005 (orig. 1990), Abdo Publishing Company, Ages 8 to 12.
—Rosa Roberts