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Benjamin Franklinstein Lives!
Victor Godwin, a serious-minded boy genius living in Philadelphia, discovers that Ben Franklin never died - he was put into suspended animation, and was hidden away for more than 200 years in Victor's basement! An accident re-awakens Ben centuries before he was supposed to be, and there's a problem - when Ben runs low on energy, he turns into a rampaging monster desperately hungry for electricity! All this while Victor is trying to take first place in the school science fair. But with one of history's preeminent scientists helping out, what could go wrong?
"Victor is one of the funniest nerds in children's literature." - School Library Journal
"A welcome diversion to pass the hours between scoring science-fair ribbons and exploding . . . home chemistry sets." - Booklist
"Victor is one of the funniest nerds in children's literature." - School Library Journal
"A welcome diversion to pass the hours between scoring science-fair ribbons and exploding . . . home chemistry sets." - Booklist
144 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2010
18 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Matthew McElligott
25 books42 followersMatthew McElligott is the author and illustrator of many books for children. When Matt is not writing, he teaches as a Professor of Graphic and Media Design at Russell Sage College in Albany. He lives on a small farm in upstate New York with his wife and their animals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
April 4, 2017
This was such a fun, quick and hilarious read. I loved the mixture of history with science and the supernatural, it all worked so well. I look forward to reading the next books in the series. P.S. I suddenly have the urge to eat potatoes. Yummmm! :)
- Richard
- Richard
January 16, 2013
I'm currently reading the book "Benjamin Franklinstein Lives" by Matthew McElligott & Larry Tuxbury. So far I've only gotten to page 45 and things are just getting started... Victor, is a boy who loves to research, discover new things, and always keep EVERYTHING perfect. He's completely shocked when he finds out that the real Benjamin Franklin is alive! At first they discuss how scientifically this could be "possible", but eventually things started to get weird when Benjamin became hungry and wanted to eat. Then he howled the word 'foooooood' and he stomped around the room in search for something to eat. Since Victor didn't want Ben to wreak anything he decided to chase him, all of a sudden they were both out on the rooftop, running around and BAM! Ben falls right off and lands on the ground. One thing that I like about this book is when the writers leave me hanging, just wanting to read more and more. Like the example above, they end the chapter right after all the commotion. Another thing I like is when they include little pictures or illustrations to make sure you understand everything. But I have to say… before the part where Victor knows about Benjamin, things were slowly paced, and now since all the action is happening and things are speeding up, it sorta confuses me. Something that I can predict is Victor’s reaction (don’t worry, it’s a good thing) because I have a personality that relates to his, I can’t stand things that don’t look flawless and whenever someone admits that they’re a perfectionist I immediately know that we have something in common. And sometimes I even laugh out loud because who in the world would remake their science project graph just because the lines weren’t the right color? :) Overall I really enjoy reading this book because it’s spooky/different from what I normally read, and it’s fascinating because it includes a lot of interesting facts and statements. This book defiantly deserves 3 STARS!!!
November 6, 2012
2ND RESPONSE:
I recently finished Benjamin Franlinstein Lives, by Matthew McElligott. I think it was a great book because I really enjoyed Benjamin Franklin coming back from the dead. For example that would never happen in real life so I thought it was really funny. I mean finding Benjamin Franklin in your basement, now that's hilarious. This book is about Victor going in his basement and finding the ghost of Benjamin Franklin in a coffin. Benjamin runs on battery and he is about to run out. Along with dealing with Benjamin, Victor has a science fair project due in three days! His project was a big volcano, but Benjamin tries to do one of his "science experiments" on it, and the whole thing explodes. This relates to me because my dad once tried to help me fix my lamp in my room. Everything went wrong and the lamp completely broke. This author described the chapter of when Victor found Benjamin in his own basement very well. For example she said it was Benjamin's laboratory, but it was just Victors basement. I would recommend this to people who like science fiction and fantasy because it has Benjamin Franklin in it and some fantasy when his ghost comes into the story. The only dislike I had about this book is that Benjamin ruined Victors science fair project. True friends would never do that to each other, so it was confusing to me when Benjamin did that to Victor.
I recently finished Benjamin Franlinstein Lives, by Matthew McElligott. I think it was a great book because I really enjoyed Benjamin Franklin coming back from the dead. For example that would never happen in real life so I thought it was really funny. I mean finding Benjamin Franklin in your basement, now that's hilarious. This book is about Victor going in his basement and finding the ghost of Benjamin Franklin in a coffin. Benjamin runs on battery and he is about to run out. Along with dealing with Benjamin, Victor has a science fair project due in three days! His project was a big volcano, but Benjamin tries to do one of his "science experiments" on it, and the whole thing explodes. This relates to me because my dad once tried to help me fix my lamp in my room. Everything went wrong and the lamp completely broke. This author described the chapter of when Victor found Benjamin in his own basement very well. For example she said it was Benjamin's laboratory, but it was just Victors basement. I would recommend this to people who like science fiction and fantasy because it has Benjamin Franklin in it and some fantasy when his ghost comes into the story. The only dislike I had about this book is that Benjamin ruined Victors science fair project. True friends would never do that to each other, so it was confusing to me when Benjamin did that to Victor.
September 14, 2017
I like this book because it's a book that makes me like reading and it's entertaining
December 7, 2012
I recently finished BENJAMIN FRANKLINSTEIN LIVES by Matthew McElligott and I thought it was a pretty good book. It was kind of slow paced but once you got passed the slower parts, it got more interesting. Sometimes I got a little bit confused on the parts where they tried to described how Benjamin Franklin was still alive, but then again, maybe I was the only one. I have to admit that the lead character, Victor, is kind of geeky but I really like how a boy named, Scott, is really nice to him any way. It reminds that I should be nicer to people no matter who thy are. I definitely think that his book was issue oriented because Victor and Ben have a lot problems with Ben losing control and going kind of crazy. I really like how the author described what was going through Victor's head. He tells a lot about his thoughts and feelings of the things that are going on around him I would recommend this book to anyone. It's an easy rad and it's kind of funny how Ben reacts to the 21st century. I would give this book an overall three stars.
July 20, 2014
I was so surprised by this book! The plot was completely original. Victor Godwin is a science nerd and maybe a bit OCD. He and his mom live in a very old and decrepit house in Philadelphia. It turns out that there is a secret passage to a secret basement laboratory that belonged to Benjamin Franklin and that Franklin has been living in suspended animation there for the past 200 years!
The story line is well developed and creative. I love the way the McElligot and Tuxbury explain the way the suspended animation might be possible and give reasons why Franklin might have done it. They masterfully set up the story and even though it is a short 120 page book, there is real growth in Victor.
This is the beginning of a series and I can picture many boys and girls who will love the adventure.
The story line is well developed and creative. I love the way the McElligot and Tuxbury explain the way the suspended animation might be possible and give reasons why Franklin might have done it. They masterfully set up the story and even though it is a short 120 page book, there is real growth in Victor.
This is the beginning of a series and I can picture many boys and girls who will love the adventure.
March 21, 2011
This books is absolutely hysterical for its details and plot premise - though the overall action and story arc are a little lacking. In this book, Benjamin Franklin preserved himself in some electrical fluid hundreds of years ago, before he died. A lightening storm hits the house where he's been in the sealed basement, and he comes back to life! Like Frankenstein's Monster. But the reawakened Ben Franklin needs a particular amount of energy to keep going - too little and he's a zombie looking for electricity instead of brains. Too much and he becomes a rampaging monster. Just the right amount, fun with Ben Franklin in the 21st Century.
October 17, 2012
While I thought this book was kind of horrible, I think it would be good for kids who really enjoy science, time travel, and books about kids in school. I'm kind of curious to see who summoned Benjamin Franklin back to life, but I don't know that I'm curious enough to read the next one... But maybe...
An easy read for fourth grade through sixth grade since I don't remember Victor's grade being revealed at all...
An easy read for fourth grade through sixth grade since I don't remember Victor's grade being revealed at all...
November 6, 2013
I am narrating this book for Reading and Radio Resource, a Dallas-based non-profit organization. It's a fun kid's book about Ben Franklin being awakened from hibernation after more than 200 years. His new-found friend, Victor, helps him navigate the streets of Philadelphia in order to find the Modern Order of Prometheus and avoid an unspecified catastrophe.
December 14, 2014
My last MHL book. Sweet. I wanted so much to love this one. We study all about electricity, magnetism and Ben Franklin in 4th grade. I had hoped this would be a great accompanying read aloud. But it did nothing for me. The science in it was interesting but I have a hard time seeing many kids buying into it. Disappointing. Ps... My MHL winner for this year is definitely 'Belly Up'.
March 20, 2015
Very cute and silly :). Good read for elementary schoolers who are a bit science minded. Not a spectacular book, but could turn the right kid into a reader. I liked the moral that sometimes making mistakes and taking risks is better than being safe and achieving perfection.
Currently reading
January 16, 2013i am in the beginning but this book based on the trailer i predict that franklenstein will be free. it kinda relates to my life because i did a sucsessful project
October 23, 2014
The prologue of Benjamin Franklinstein Lives! shows us a creepy chamber in which the famous Benjamin Franklin has bolts fastened to his neck (like Frankenstein's Monster) and is submerged in a coffin-like tub of gooey green liquid. We watch as he drifts into a coma state with his Caretaker from The Prometheus Order (a secret society) standing by. It will be the Caretakers' job through the years to keep Franklin's body safe and wake him when he is needed in the future.
Then we switch to the current time and the story of Victor Godwin, a young boy consumed by his interest in science and his commitment to keeping his life extremely organized. When the empty apartment on the lower level of the Godwins' home is rented by Mr. Benjamin, Victor is suspicious; something about Mr. Benjamin doesn't feel right to him. When he hears strange, loud noises coming from the apartment Victor enters to confront the new tenant. There he discovers a secret door, to a secret stairway which leads to a secret room. In that room--you guessed it!--he discovers Benjamin Franklin on top of a large glass and metal box holding wires and cables with active electric current pulsing through them.
In an effort to keep Franklin from being electrocuted Victor interrupts the electrical circuit and realizes he is, in fact, in the presence of the real Benjamin Franklin. Franklin is confused that Victor is not from The Prometheus Order and cannot determine why he has been awakened in the future; what problem is he supposed to help solve for humanity?
From here the story is predictable, but still fun for young readers. Franklin is exposed to the 21st Century and is fascinated to see the extraordinary advances in science, technology and lifestyle since the 1700s. He accidentally destroys Victor's painstakingly constructed volcano project for the School Science Fair. Apologetic, Benjamin helps Victor create a new volcano project which winds up being a spectacularly funny disaster at the Science Fair.
As the first book in a series, Benjamin Franklinstein Lives! has to set up the circumstances and premise for the rest of the series and so it spends little time on character development. We don't really get to know Victor's character too deeply and there is no real historical or personal information interwoven with Benjamin Franklin's character other than his name. Scott, Victor's classmate and the son of the local TV Weatherman, appears all too briefly throughout the story but has the potential to be a funny, engaging character.
There are moments of silly slapstick humor sprinkled expertly throughout the story which will appeal to its young readers. Benjamin Franklinstein Lives! will be a popular choice among the Grades 3-5, the Division I readers for the Maud Hart Lovelace nominees. It is a short, easy, funny read. It would work well as a read-aloud in 2nd or 3rd Grade either on its own or in conjunction with American History or electricity/science units. Benjamin Franklinstein Lives! also shows promise for developing character and plotline in the next books in the series: Benjamin Franklinstein Meets the Fright Brothers and Benjamin Franklinstein Meets Thomas Deadison.
For older readers (Grades 3-7) who are interested in the time travel aspects of historical characters I highly recommend Dan Gutman's Qwerty Stevens Back in Time series. the first volume involves meeting Thomas Edison and the second, Benjamin Franklin. These books are the next step up in language, character and storyline--but remain fun and engaging.
Then we switch to the current time and the story of Victor Godwin, a young boy consumed by his interest in science and his commitment to keeping his life extremely organized. When the empty apartment on the lower level of the Godwins' home is rented by Mr. Benjamin, Victor is suspicious; something about Mr. Benjamin doesn't feel right to him. When he hears strange, loud noises coming from the apartment Victor enters to confront the new tenant. There he discovers a secret door, to a secret stairway which leads to a secret room. In that room--you guessed it!--he discovers Benjamin Franklin on top of a large glass and metal box holding wires and cables with active electric current pulsing through them.
In an effort to keep Franklin from being electrocuted Victor interrupts the electrical circuit and realizes he is, in fact, in the presence of the real Benjamin Franklin. Franklin is confused that Victor is not from The Prometheus Order and cannot determine why he has been awakened in the future; what problem is he supposed to help solve for humanity?
From here the story is predictable, but still fun for young readers. Franklin is exposed to the 21st Century and is fascinated to see the extraordinary advances in science, technology and lifestyle since the 1700s. He accidentally destroys Victor's painstakingly constructed volcano project for the School Science Fair. Apologetic, Benjamin helps Victor create a new volcano project which winds up being a spectacularly funny disaster at the Science Fair.
As the first book in a series, Benjamin Franklinstein Lives! has to set up the circumstances and premise for the rest of the series and so it spends little time on character development. We don't really get to know Victor's character too deeply and there is no real historical or personal information interwoven with Benjamin Franklin's character other than his name. Scott, Victor's classmate and the son of the local TV Weatherman, appears all too briefly throughout the story but has the potential to be a funny, engaging character.
There are moments of silly slapstick humor sprinkled expertly throughout the story which will appeal to its young readers. Benjamin Franklinstein Lives! will be a popular choice among the Grades 3-5, the Division I readers for the Maud Hart Lovelace nominees. It is a short, easy, funny read. It would work well as a read-aloud in 2nd or 3rd Grade either on its own or in conjunction with American History or electricity/science units. Benjamin Franklinstein Lives! also shows promise for developing character and plotline in the next books in the series: Benjamin Franklinstein Meets the Fright Brothers and Benjamin Franklinstein Meets Thomas Deadison.
For older readers (Grades 3-7) who are interested in the time travel aspects of historical characters I highly recommend Dan Gutman's Qwerty Stevens Back in Time series. the first volume involves meeting Thomas Edison and the second, Benjamin Franklin. These books are the next step up in language, character and storyline--but remain fun and engaging.
July 26, 2016
A Solid, Funny Science and Chemistry Adventure
I'm all for fantasy quests, monster hunting, sci-fi epics, time travel mysteries, prophecy quests, portals, alien visitations, and magical spells. Bring it on and let's read it I say.
But this book, and the series to which it belongs, struck me as something special. The hero is a science nerd, without apology. In a world that has begun to embrace nerdiness it's time for nerdy chapter book fiction. What's best, though, is that this hero isn't precocious, or obnoxious, or harboring some grievance, or one lab accident away from being a supervillain. He's precise and methodical and rational, but he's still a kid and he has real spirit and style. Rather than wearing thin, he grows on you as you read.
The overarching premise is that back in 1790 Ben Franklin was put into a form of primitive suspended animation. He has now been brought back to life in Victor's basement and the two have formed a deeply weird and totally funky team. Ben's big problem is that he runs on electricity, but if he's overcharged he goes all Franklinstein monster. This is a great concept that is twisted and turned so that we get humor, history, science, adventure, inspiration and a totally unique buddy comedy.
The book has a plot that involves Victor competing at a science fair, and the series has a larger story arc involving Franklin's search for a group, The Modern Order of Prometheus, that know about his situation. Both plots are all over the place; this is not what sci-fi fans would call a "hard science" story. But, the individual bits of science and chemistry are right enough and some of 1790's bits are particularly interesting.
The book is further jazzed up with illustrations that help frame the action and put the science into context. There's a lot of subtle humor in the details, and instead of being just ornaments they contribute to the style and momentum of the tale.
So, while not necessarily for everybody, and while a bit advanced beyond an introductory chapter book, this is certainly a nice option for a reader who expresses an interest in science or who is just looking for a change of pace. A nice find.
Please note that I found this book while browsing the local library's Kindle books, and downloaded it for free. I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.
I'm all for fantasy quests, monster hunting, sci-fi epics, time travel mysteries, prophecy quests, portals, alien visitations, and magical spells. Bring it on and let's read it I say.
But this book, and the series to which it belongs, struck me as something special. The hero is a science nerd, without apology. In a world that has begun to embrace nerdiness it's time for nerdy chapter book fiction. What's best, though, is that this hero isn't precocious, or obnoxious, or harboring some grievance, or one lab accident away from being a supervillain. He's precise and methodical and rational, but he's still a kid and he has real spirit and style. Rather than wearing thin, he grows on you as you read.
The overarching premise is that back in 1790 Ben Franklin was put into a form of primitive suspended animation. He has now been brought back to life in Victor's basement and the two have formed a deeply weird and totally funky team. Ben's big problem is that he runs on electricity, but if he's overcharged he goes all Franklinstein monster. This is a great concept that is twisted and turned so that we get humor, history, science, adventure, inspiration and a totally unique buddy comedy.
The book has a plot that involves Victor competing at a science fair, and the series has a larger story arc involving Franklin's search for a group, The Modern Order of Prometheus, that know about his situation. Both plots are all over the place; this is not what sci-fi fans would call a "hard science" story. But, the individual bits of science and chemistry are right enough and some of 1790's bits are particularly interesting.
The book is further jazzed up with illustrations that help frame the action and put the science into context. There's a lot of subtle humor in the details, and instead of being just ornaments they contribute to the style and momentum of the tale.
So, while not necessarily for everybody, and while a bit advanced beyond an introductory chapter book, this is certainly a nice option for a reader who expresses an interest in science or who is just looking for a change of pace. A nice find.
Please note that I found this book while browsing the local library's Kindle books, and downloaded it for free. I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.
Read
October 15, 2010Benjamin Franklin didn’t die, he’s just been in a state of suspended-animation, waiting for the Modern Order of Prometheus to wake him when America faces its next crisis. Benjamin Franklinstein Lives by Matthew McElligott and Larry Taxbury intertwines history and science to create a very light-hearted tale about Benjamin Franklin reappearing in the 21st century and his subsequent friendship with his neighbor, Victor Godwin. Lightning strikes Victor’s apartment building reanimating Benjamin Franklin after nearly 250 years of slumber. Ben believes his Custodian has woken him to do the work of the Modern Order of the Prometheus, but there is no Custodian in sight, only Victor, a young scientist in the making.
After a bit of scientific trial and error, Ben and Victor determine the right amount of electricity necessary to keep Ben running fully charged and they set out on the path to find the Order and determine Ben’s and possibly civilization’s fate. Explosions, experiments, and destruction follow Ben and Victor’s moves as they navigate their quest.
A recipe for Promethean All-Natural Extra Tart Lemonade, a diagram of Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, lock casing patent figure, a map of downtown Philadelphia, and chemical makeup diagrams of “harmonic fluid” are just a few of the illustrations that add a fun educational component to the story. Lively dialogue, humorous situations, and fantastic illustrations create an entertaining read in Benjamin Franklinstein Lives.
Benjamin Franklinstein Lives isn’t so much a horror story as it is a tale about a new friendship and the wonder of science; it just happens to have monster as a main character who operates quite a bit like Frankenstein’s monster. Recommended for a school library or a public library’s juvenile fiction collection, ages 7-12.
Reviewed by Kelly Fann
After a bit of scientific trial and error, Ben and Victor determine the right amount of electricity necessary to keep Ben running fully charged and they set out on the path to find the Order and determine Ben’s and possibly civilization’s fate. Explosions, experiments, and destruction follow Ben and Victor’s moves as they navigate their quest.
A recipe for Promethean All-Natural Extra Tart Lemonade, a diagram of Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, lock casing patent figure, a map of downtown Philadelphia, and chemical makeup diagrams of “harmonic fluid” are just a few of the illustrations that add a fun educational component to the story. Lively dialogue, humorous situations, and fantastic illustrations create an entertaining read in Benjamin Franklinstein Lives.
Benjamin Franklinstein Lives isn’t so much a horror story as it is a tale about a new friendship and the wonder of science; it just happens to have monster as a main character who operates quite a bit like Frankenstein’s monster. Recommended for a school library or a public library’s juvenile fiction collection, ages 7-12.
Reviewed by Kelly Fann
August 3, 2012
Summary:
School Library Journal: Benjamin Franklin never died. Instead, a secret organization called the Modern Order of Prometheus, of which he was a member, placed him in suspended animation in a hidden Philadelphia cellar, to serve the nation at a later time. In the 21st century, Franklin indeed awakes, but the Prometheans are nowhere to be found. Above the cellar live a young science nerd, Victor Godwin, and his mother. Franklin, trying to understand why he has been awakened, asks to rent a room in the house. Even though he does smell a little like he has spent too much time in a cave and has a greenish complexion, Victor's mom is happy to oblige–after all, he pays the deposit in 1783 gold coins. Franklin also needs regular charges of electricity to stay alive, but when hit by lightning, he temporarily transforms into a real Franklinstein. Victor is one of the funniest nerds in children's literature. He doesn't take long to divine Franklin's secret and is off on expeditions to help him find the Prometheans while trying, with the famous inventor's help, to win top prize in the school science fair.
My Comments:
A silly book that would definitely appeal to boys. The cool thing is that the book is based on a historic figure, Ben Franklin, so the reader learns something about him along the way. The book looks good too. Each page has its own border and there are lots of mock 18th-century illustrations - even of a Philly steak sandwhich. There are some sequels with other historic characters Orville and Wilber Wright and Thomas Edison that sound like fun too. Recommended for boys in grades 4-6.
School Library Journal: Benjamin Franklin never died. Instead, a secret organization called the Modern Order of Prometheus, of which he was a member, placed him in suspended animation in a hidden Philadelphia cellar, to serve the nation at a later time. In the 21st century, Franklin indeed awakes, but the Prometheans are nowhere to be found. Above the cellar live a young science nerd, Victor Godwin, and his mother. Franklin, trying to understand why he has been awakened, asks to rent a room in the house. Even though he does smell a little like he has spent too much time in a cave and has a greenish complexion, Victor's mom is happy to oblige–after all, he pays the deposit in 1783 gold coins. Franklin also needs regular charges of electricity to stay alive, but when hit by lightning, he temporarily transforms into a real Franklinstein. Victor is one of the funniest nerds in children's literature. He doesn't take long to divine Franklin's secret and is off on expeditions to help him find the Prometheans while trying, with the famous inventor's help, to win top prize in the school science fair.
My Comments:
A silly book that would definitely appeal to boys. The cool thing is that the book is based on a historic figure, Ben Franklin, so the reader learns something about him along the way. The book looks good too. Each page has its own border and there are lots of mock 18th-century illustrations - even of a Philly steak sandwhich. There are some sequels with other historic characters Orville and Wilber Wright and Thomas Edison that sound like fun too. Recommended for boys in grades 4-6.
February 23, 2012
Reading Level: Grades 3 - 6
You've heard of Benjamin Franklin. You know, the guy from like, the 1700s, you know, famous for being in the thunderstorm with the kite and the key, discovering electricity? Yeah, him. That guy. He's been dead for what, like three hundred years? Think again.
--
Victor Godwin is smarter than most people he knows. Definitely smarter than the weatherman, who's predicted sunny days when Victor knows mathematically that there's a 92% chance of rain. A million times smarter than his best friend Scott Weaver, who made a super-charged potato battery by putting batteries inside of a raw potato and painting it exciting colors. (In case you are wondering, the potato explodes in the middle of class.) Then a thunderstorm that seems only to affect Victor's house changes everything. Soon a strange man who looks and dresses like Benjamin Franklin moves into Victor's house as a tenant. He says he's an actor, but he paid his entire first year's rent in heavy gold coins, marked 1783. What kind of actor never takes off his costume, and pays for things in eighteenth-century doubloons? Frank Benjamin, downstairs tenant at the Godwin's house, that's who. Then Victor discovers what's really going on...
Other books like this one:
No Girls Allowed (Dogs Okay) by Trudi Trueit
The Zombie Chasers by John Kloepfer
Whales on Stilts by M.T. Anderson
Zombiekins by Kevin Bolger
For more book reviews from the HPPL Youth Department, click here.
You've heard of Benjamin Franklin. You know, the guy from like, the 1700s, you know, famous for being in the thunderstorm with the kite and the key, discovering electricity? Yeah, him. That guy. He's been dead for what, like three hundred years? Think again.
--
Victor Godwin is smarter than most people he knows. Definitely smarter than the weatherman, who's predicted sunny days when Victor knows mathematically that there's a 92% chance of rain. A million times smarter than his best friend Scott Weaver, who made a super-charged potato battery by putting batteries inside of a raw potato and painting it exciting colors. (In case you are wondering, the potato explodes in the middle of class.) Then a thunderstorm that seems only to affect Victor's house changes everything. Soon a strange man who looks and dresses like Benjamin Franklin moves into Victor's house as a tenant. He says he's an actor, but he paid his entire first year's rent in heavy gold coins, marked 1783. What kind of actor never takes off his costume, and pays for things in eighteenth-century doubloons? Frank Benjamin, downstairs tenant at the Godwin's house, that's who. Then Victor discovers what's really going on...
Other books like this one:
No Girls Allowed (Dogs Okay) by Trudi Trueit
The Zombie Chasers by John Kloepfer
Whales on Stilts by M.T. Anderson
Zombiekins by Kevin Bolger
For more book reviews from the HPPL Youth Department, click here.
February 28, 2011
You've heard of Benjamin Franklin. You know, the guy from like, the 1700s, you know, famous for being in the thunderstorm with the kite and the key, discovering electricity? Yeah, him. That guy. He's been dead for what, like three hundred years? Think again.
--
Victor Godwin is smarter than most people he knows. Definitely smarter than the weatherman, who's predicted sunny days when Victor knows mathematically that there's a 92% chance of rain. A million times smarter than his best friend Scott Weaver, who made a super-charged potato battery by putting batteries inside of a raw potato and painting it exciting colors. (In case you are wondering, the potato explodes in the middle of class.) Then a thunderstorm that seems only to affect Victor's house changes everything. Soon a strange man who looks and dresses like Benjamin Franklin moves into Victor's house as a tenant. He says he's an actor, but he paid his entire first year's rent in heavy gold coins, marked 1783. What kind of actor never takes off his costume, and pays for things in eighteenth-century doubloons? Frank Benjamin, downstairs tenant at the Godwin's house, that's who. Then Victor discovers what's really going on...
--
Victor Godwin is smarter than most people he knows. Definitely smarter than the weatherman, who's predicted sunny days when Victor knows mathematically that there's a 92% chance of rain. A million times smarter than his best friend Scott Weaver, who made a super-charged potato battery by putting batteries inside of a raw potato and painting it exciting colors. (In case you are wondering, the potato explodes in the middle of class.) Then a thunderstorm that seems only to affect Victor's house changes everything. Soon a strange man who looks and dresses like Benjamin Franklin moves into Victor's house as a tenant. He says he's an actor, but he paid his entire first year's rent in heavy gold coins, marked 1783. What kind of actor never takes off his costume, and pays for things in eighteenth-century doubloons? Frank Benjamin, downstairs tenant at the Godwin's house, that's who. Then Victor discovers what's really going on...
December 12, 2011
Title: Benjamin Franklinstein Lives!
Author: Mathew McElligott, Larry Tuxbury
Year: 2010
ISBN: 9780399252297
Type: book
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy
Length/Pages & Reading Level: 128 pages; 9 and up
Publisher/Studio name: G.P. Putman
Plot Summary: Victor Godwin is a straight-A student who has spent hours perfecting his science fair project. His world is turned upside down when he discovers that Benjamin Franklin didn’t die, but has been in suspended animation in Victor’s basement for 200 years. Worse, Victor discovers that if he feed Ben too much electricity he becomes a maniac hungering for electricity. Ben tells Victor that he has been awakened for a higher purpose having to do with a secret society called the Modern Order of Prometheus. Ben helps Victor with his science project.
Review: This novel is full of humor and excitement as Victor is coaxed out of his comfort zone by Ben who takes on a sort of father figure. Tweens will enjoy this fun and humorous novel which is laced with subtle issues related to divorce and needs for control.
Annotation: Victor is a young boy who is a straight A student and aspiring inventor, what happens when he discovers Benjamin Franklin is in his basement and alive! Discover how Victor’s life will be forever changed.
Author: Mathew McElligott, Larry Tuxbury
Year: 2010
ISBN: 9780399252297
Type: book
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy
Length/Pages & Reading Level: 128 pages; 9 and up
Publisher/Studio name: G.P. Putman
Plot Summary: Victor Godwin is a straight-A student who has spent hours perfecting his science fair project. His world is turned upside down when he discovers that Benjamin Franklin didn’t die, but has been in suspended animation in Victor’s basement for 200 years. Worse, Victor discovers that if he feed Ben too much electricity he becomes a maniac hungering for electricity. Ben tells Victor that he has been awakened for a higher purpose having to do with a secret society called the Modern Order of Prometheus. Ben helps Victor with his science project.
Review: This novel is full of humor and excitement as Victor is coaxed out of his comfort zone by Ben who takes on a sort of father figure. Tweens will enjoy this fun and humorous novel which is laced with subtle issues related to divorce and needs for control.
Annotation: Victor is a young boy who is a straight A student and aspiring inventor, what happens when he discovers Benjamin Franklin is in his basement and alive! Discover how Victor’s life will be forever changed.
October 18, 2014
Not a review, but ideas for using this book for a discussion group.
Had a fun book discussion of this title with the 4th and 5th graders this evening. They all enjoyed the humor and the technical drawings. We looked back at how the authors described Victor by sharing details about his day, then used the information to predict:
What would be Victor's favorite TV show?
What is Victor's biggest fear?
What is Victor's favorite snack food?
Where would Victor most want to go on vacation?
While snacking we used a page from the Dude book to create our own monsters, then shared our best results. (If we didn't have so many activities, we could have attempted to draw them).
We also took turns explaining modern technology to Benjamin Franklinstein partners, since he was so fascinated with the stapler.
I showed them a "hand of Frankenstein" experiment for fun, but you could do any experiment.
We could have used the recipe to make lemonade if I didn't already have juice to serve.
Both the boys and the girls had a good time, and some talked about the trial and error they are going through with their current STEM assignment. This was a fun title to kick off the new year of book discussions, all are excited to continue coming, and try other tween programs at the library.
Had a fun book discussion of this title with the 4th and 5th graders this evening. They all enjoyed the humor and the technical drawings. We looked back at how the authors described Victor by sharing details about his day, then used the information to predict:
What would be Victor's favorite TV show?
What is Victor's biggest fear?
What is Victor's favorite snack food?
Where would Victor most want to go on vacation?
While snacking we used a page from the Dude book to create our own monsters, then shared our best results. (If we didn't have so many activities, we could have attempted to draw them).
We also took turns explaining modern technology to Benjamin Franklinstein partners, since he was so fascinated with the stapler.
I showed them a "hand of Frankenstein" experiment for fun, but you could do any experiment.
We could have used the recipe to make lemonade if I didn't already have juice to serve.
Both the boys and the girls had a good time, and some talked about the trial and error they are going through with their current STEM assignment. This was a fun title to kick off the new year of book discussions, all are excited to continue coming, and try other tween programs at the library.
October 17, 2018
What if I told you Ben Franklin never died. It is well know that he was a member of various secret societies, but one society had the mother of all secrets. The Modern Order of Prometheus was a very secret organization that found a way to “preserve” a living human in perpetual sleep until they were needed by the future. Ben was the first to be put to sleep. He has now awoken and is trying to find the custodian or anyone else with the Order to tell him why he has been awakened. But all he finds is Victor, a boy getting ready for the science fair.
This book was just so much fun. Ben is Ben, but also a Frankenstein like character complete with bolts in his neck for recharging. The book uses legitimate scientific reasoning of Ben’s time for many of the ideas in the book. It uses illustrations from real patents, and explains what they were, and how they are still used today. This is part history, but also part science that is a great read for October, or any other day. The characters are likable, and I really, really, really, want to know what that kids did to the potato juice. What am I talking about? Read the book, I don’t want to spoil it.
#MountTBR
#sfftbchallenge - Children's Book.
This book was just so much fun. Ben is Ben, but also a Frankenstein like character complete with bolts in his neck for recharging. The book uses legitimate scientific reasoning of Ben’s time for many of the ideas in the book. It uses illustrations from real patents, and explains what they were, and how they are still used today. This is part history, but also part science that is a great read for October, or any other day. The characters are likable, and I really, really, really, want to know what that kids did to the potato juice. What am I talking about? Read the book, I don’t want to spoil it.
#MountTBR
#sfftbchallenge - Children's Book.
February 8, 2013
Benjamin Franklin is not dead! He's been "living" in a state of suspended animation in Victor's basement for the last 200 years and now that he's awake, he's ready to reenter society, sort of. Unfortunately his batteries run down fairly often and he needs recharging, sometimes greedily enough to cause power outages in an entire section of town. He flies into uncontrolled rages when he gets too "hungry" although he does fine when he's kept moderately charged. He was supposed to be awakened by a modern Prometheus Club member who would shepherd him into his new life, but there are none to be found--there's only Victor. Victor has scoped out the perfect science fair project and has it ready to be entered; Ben ruins it but comes up with a better idea. Except this one, while starting out interestingly, ends up scaring everyone. What's next?
First book in a new series. The story is told with a light touch and it's funny. Lots of pictures, drawings, charts, etc. Science fiction, 4th grade and up, especially boys.
First book in a new series. The story is told with a light touch and it's funny. Lots of pictures, drawings, charts, etc. Science fiction, 4th grade and up, especially boys.
Read
November 30, 2012Benjamin franklinstein live is about Ben coming back alive to accomplishing a mission. I think its really cool how someone thought to make a book like this consitering that ben invented eletricity. Ben meets a kid named victor and they become friends. If I were victor I would be a little freaked out because meeting someone who has been dead over 200 years is kind of weird. Once I remember seeing Santa when I was little and I got so freaked out I cried, but that was a long time ago. I think this book is very exiting because it gives you some information about Benjamin Franklin.I can tell this story is at its climax because they are on the mission and its kind of in the middle of the story. When I first started reding this book i was a little bit curious how it would end because i was kind of confused but as the book went on but as the book went on it all got tied together. I think i will read another one of this books because this on was so good.
March 26, 2011
I'm not quite sure how to classify this story of a Ben Franklin accidentally brought back to life by a rogue lightning strike. Let me back up. At the beginning of the book the reader witnesses Mr. Franklin putting himself into a state of suspended animation using, of course, some of his inventions. Hundreds of years later, a rogue lightning strike wakes up Mr. Franklin, who rents the apartment in Victor's building. Victor discovers Ben's secret and sets out to help him control his battery charge, as well as find the members of the Secret Order of Prometheans. The Prometheans are never found, but Ben helps Victor make quite an impression at his science fair. There is a little bit of history thrown in, Ben and Victor see some of the sights in Philadelphia. Kids who love zombies should eat up this book. TCP
June 27, 2011
Thoughts ...
the science nerd slightly outsider student has been done. Many times over. Benjamin Franklin as a Prometheus? Not so much.
SO ... still liking this kid even though his character is pretty standard. Scott's a hoot. And the illustrations are fun.
"But not having to decide what to wear saved important brainpower. Brainpower that Victor could use for his scientific pursuits." (p15)
"Do not fear mistakes, Victor. If It doesn't work, we will simply try again. I have often found that failure is more instructive than success." (p68)
Now going to check on whether or not Benjamin Franklinstein Meets the Fright Brothers is available yet.
the science nerd slightly outsider student has been done. Many times over. Benjamin Franklin as a Prometheus? Not so much.
SO ... still liking this kid even though his character is pretty standard. Scott's a hoot. And the illustrations are fun.
"But not having to decide what to wear saved important brainpower. Brainpower that Victor could use for his scientific pursuits." (p15)
"Do not fear mistakes, Victor. If It doesn't work, we will simply try again. I have often found that failure is more instructive than success." (p68)
Now going to check on whether or not Benjamin Franklinstein Meets the Fright Brothers is available yet.
October 26, 2012
Victor's world is turned upside down when he accidentally awakens Benjamin Franklin after being in suspended animation for over 200 years. Victor must now help Ben adjust to the new modern world. Things get even stickier when Benjamin overloads on energy and become a raging monster set to destroy anything in his path. This is a fun twist on a historical figure that reminds me of pride and prejudice and zombies. I would read this book to 4-6 graders. This would be a great entertainer to be read alongside a revolutionary war unit and can help the students understand just how big of a leap in technology we have made.
McElligott, M., & Tuxbury, L. (2010). Benjamin Franklinstein lives!. New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons.
McElligott, M., & Tuxbury, L. (2010). Benjamin Franklinstein lives!. New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons.
June 24, 2013
Title= 4 stars
Premise= 4 stars (Benjamin Franklin didn't die 200+ years ago; he's been preserved in a state of suspended animation, to be awakened at the time of a great emergency. Now, though there's no clear evidence of such an emergency, Franklin is back among the living, trying to make contact with his fellow Prometheans, and wreaking havoc on modern-day Philadelphia, with middle school science enthusiast Victor Godwin at his side.)
Illustrations= 4 stars (My favorites are the fake advertisements and scientific diagrams.)
Writing= 2 stars (This could have been creepy or funny or maybe both, but turns out to be not much of either. At 128 pages, it is a fast read, and it might appeal to young science buffs.)
Premise= 4 stars (Benjamin Franklin didn't die 200+ years ago; he's been preserved in a state of suspended animation, to be awakened at the time of a great emergency. Now, though there's no clear evidence of such an emergency, Franklin is back among the living, trying to make contact with his fellow Prometheans, and wreaking havoc on modern-day Philadelphia, with middle school science enthusiast Victor Godwin at his side.)
Illustrations= 4 stars (My favorites are the fake advertisements and scientific diagrams.)
Writing= 2 stars (This could have been creepy or funny or maybe both, but turns out to be not much of either. At 128 pages, it is a fast read, and it might appeal to young science buffs.)
July 25, 2014
What I liked about this one, the premise; Ben Franklin has been in a sleep-like coma for the past 200+ years due to one of his electricity experiments. When he is awakened, he meets Victor, a young scientific mind of the twenty first century. Victor helps Ben discover a way to stay charged and alive while Ben helps Victor with his Science Fair Project.
What happens at the Science Fair creates quite the scene. Can Victor possibly win for the best project? Unfortunately this question is not answered as the book ends rather abruptly. And that is what I didn't like about this book, how it ends with no resolution. I get it; it's a cliffhanger and there will be more books in the series. Still, this reader would have liked to see a little more of a resolution.
What happens at the Science Fair creates quite the scene. Can Victor possibly win for the best project? Unfortunately this question is not answered as the book ends rather abruptly. And that is what I didn't like about this book, how it ends with no resolution. I get it; it's a cliffhanger and there will be more books in the series. Still, this reader would have liked to see a little more of a resolution.
February 25, 2016
This book is about a boy named Victor who discovers that Benjamin Franklin has come back to life and is running on electricity and is living in an apartment room under Victor.
This book was really good and very fascinating and it also had learning stuff too! This book reminds me of how it never hurts to fail just like when I build with Legos and try to build a new creation. This book also reminds me of Danny from The Loser List because Victor also seems very nerdy in a good way. I loved when Scott’s potato exploded in science class it was pretty funny. This book mostly reminds me of how much science is growing from when Benjamin lived and who knows what science will be like in the future.
Science lovers need to read this book is very exciting, scary too, but mostly funny.
This book was really good and very fascinating and it also had learning stuff too! This book reminds me of how it never hurts to fail just like when I build with Legos and try to build a new creation. This book also reminds me of Danny from The Loser List because Victor also seems very nerdy in a good way. I loved when Scott’s potato exploded in science class it was pretty funny. This book mostly reminds me of how much science is growing from when Benjamin lived and who knows what science will be like in the future.
Science lovers need to read this book is very exciting, scary too, but mostly funny.
February 11, 2012
Imagine that your neighbor is Benjamin Franklin who has been kept alive for hundreds of years using an invention of his own design but now is in trouble because he needs to be recharged all the time and is having a bit of difficulty with the modern world. Poor Victor really doesn't know what to believe when he meets the new tenant his mom just allowed to move into the vacant apartment. He is a wiz kid at science and up until now, struggling with his biggest problem which was what to do to win the science fair. Funny and the perfect read for kids who love science with a bit of fiction thrown in for good measure.
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