Benjamin Franklin: The New American

by Milton Meltzer

Presents a biography of the multi-talented and accomplished founding father.

Genres: Biography

Library Binding

First published March 1, 1989

About the author

Milton Meltzer wrote 110 books, five of which were nominated for the National Book Award. With Langston Hughes, he co-authored A Pictorial History of Black Americans, now in its sixth edition. He received the 2001 Laura Ingalls Wilder Award for his contribution to children's literature, the 1986 Jane Addams Peace Association Children's Book Award, and the 2000 Regina Medal. He died in New York City of esophageal cancer at age 94.

Reviews

[Kalin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book BENJAMIN FRANKLIN THE NEW AMERICAN by Milton Meltzer was very good. It had suspense. I gave it three stars because of word choice. it"s a lot like my own meaning it was too simple. Benjamin Franklin was an outgoing character. He wanted to do everything his father wanted him to but be a candle maker. In Benjamin’s mind he wanted to read books...all kinds of books.

The best thing about the book is its full of history and facts. Things I like. One that stood out was when he helped write the Declaration of Independence. There weren't a whole lot of people involved with this. So it was impressive that he was willing to do that while everyone else was focused on farming and stuff. The cons about the book is its focus on schooling a little too much in the beginning. Like when he has to get a degree and it was hard on teachers because of a lot of kids didn't even seem to care when the teacher was giving a lesson. Which is very similar to today. School sure hasn't changed that much.

When I was done reading the book, I thought about how it had to have been hard to get through college and school at his age. Especially since he was a printer, publisher, business man, author, inventor, scientist, politician and diplomat. He excelled in them all. In conclusion the book by Milton Meltzer is a good read for all.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved learning about one of our founding fathers. Benjamin Franklin was an amazing man with a thirst for knowledge and a desire to improve everything, especially America. I loved his pacifist approach to everything including his theory that "the way to secure peace is to be prepared for war." What a fascinating man.

[Bryan Boyd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Benjamin Franklin was quite the American. He was a entrepreneur, businessman, postmaster general, Pennsylvania Congressman, inventor, scientist, diplomat, writer (Poor Richard's Almanac), etc., etc. It is refreshing to read about a man who mostly desires the general good for society.

[Margie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read. Basic facts. Gave you a sense of the man.