Now & Ben: The Modern Inventions of Benjamin Franklin
When I was young, I was fascinated by Benjamin Franklin. It was hard to imagine one man being responsible for so many things. And I didn't even know about half of them! This book will introduce your child to Franklin, including his various occupations and numerous inventions. Most of us know that Franklin was a printer, statesman, and inventor, but how many know he was also a musician, humorist, and humanitarian? We are all familiar with the story of Franklin flying a kite and "discovering" electricity. He also invented the lightening rod, bifocals, and the odometer. We can't say that he invented daylight savings time, but it was his idea. And let's not forget about libraries, fire departments, and post offices! What would our life be like without Ben?
Ages 5-9More »
Picture Book of Benjamin Franklin
This little book is a great introduction to Ben Franklin for young children. It may not go into great depth, but it does provide some basic information about Franklin, his life, his inventions, and even his role in the birth of America. The illustrations enhance the story, bringing it to life.
Ages 6 and upMore »
Ben and Me: A New and Astonishing Life of Benjamin Franklin
This book is such a fun read. It's something like fantasy, historical fiction. It is based on the life of Benjamin Franklin, but it's narrated by Amos, a church mouse who becomes friends with Franklin. From the day Amos first meets Ben and helps him invent the Franklin stove through the Revolutionary War and right on to old age, the two remain very close friends. It is through the tales that Amos tells that children learn about Franklin's life and all he contributed.
Ages 8 to 12More »
Franklin, American Genius: His Life and Ideas with 21 Activities
If your child is a hands-on learner, she is sure to love this book. Actually, all kids will enjoy this book. It provides plenty of information about Ben Franklin, including his popularity as a result of his Poor Richard's Almanac, his founding of the first library, volunteer fire department, and postal service. There is also plenty in the book about Franklin's scientific endeavors, such as his proving that lightening was electricity, as well as his involvement in the political intrigues with France and Britain. Kids gain an understanding of Franklin through the activities in the book: printing an almanac cover, building a barometer, conducting experiments with static electricity, and even playing a glass "armonica," an instrument Franklin had invented. The book adds Internet resources and a reading list for those who want to learn more.
Ages 9 and upMore »
Benjamin Franklin: Revolutionary Inventor
What can one man do? Plenty! Just look at Benjamin Franklin. He was a printer, a scientist, a musician, a statesman, a diplomat, a humanitarian, and an inventor. We have him to thank for libraries, streetlights, odometers, bifocals, and so much more. He was a humanitarian who was among the first abolitionists in the country and established the first hospital in America. He was a major figure among the Founding Fathers of America, too, signing both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. It was also through his efforts that America got much needed help during the American Revolution. And those are just the highlights of his life!
Ages 10 and upMore »