Ben Franklin is geared towards third grade and up. This brief biography of Franklin’s life is written by Cynthia Benjamin. The illustrations and photos will appeal to young readers. Benjamin acknowledges that Ben Franklin was an incredible man who helped shape America, and she discusses major parts of Franklin’s life.
Readers will understand how kind and caring Franklin was. The book emphasizes how Franklin helped the people of Philadelphia by creating the city’s fire department, hospital, and library. His unforgettable inventions are still used today. In addition to being such a kind person with a brilliant mind, Franklin was strongly devoted to America. He was a member of the Second Continental Congress, wrote ideas in the Declaration of Independence, and signed the U.S. Constitution.
I liked how Franklin’s life experiences were outlined in this short biography. The chronological order helps young children understand Franklin’s life. Each page of text was accompanied with either a cartoon-like illustration or an old photo of Ben Franklin. The end of the book lists a few fun activities to do at school or home.
This book can be connected to a variety of science lessons. One idea is to have students learn more about lightning and/or electricity because Ben Franklin proved that lightning makes electricity. The story can be read to engage the students before beginning the lesson.