Benjamin was born the tenth and youngest son of Josiah Franklin, who hoped his son, would be a tithe to God and become a preacher. These dreams were short lived, because his father could not afford a proper education for a preacher. Benjamin went to learn to be a printer in his brother’s shop. After many years of struggle, Benjamin finally opened his own shop and married. On a trip to Boston, Benjamin saw a man produce and electric spark off of a boy’s hair. Franklin was intrigued and created his own experiment with a key and a lightning bulb. He was rewarded for his dangerous and successful experiment with a degree as a doctor. Franklin tried to solve problems between Britain and the colonies to keep his beloved country together. Once he knew the nation would split, he became a member of the Continental Congress an edited the Declaration of Independence and took it to press. Benjamin Franklin was one of the first American diplomats, asking France for help, and closing the treaty with Britain. Benjamin died on April 17, 1790 at 84 years old.
This biography was fun to read, the pictures were great and words seemed to jump off of the page. The book was a little long for young children, but would make a great read aloud for intermediate kids. I think that children would enjoy the story about a man that they have heard about, but probably only know he invented the light bulb.
1. Children will split into groups and reenact different parts of Franklin’s life. Groups will be the lightning experiment, time in London, the Revolution, and anything else the students found interesting.
2. Students will create their own keys out of clay to remind them of what Benjamin has done those still impacts our lives today.

Nice series of biographies appropriate for elementary students. ( )