The Portable Benjamin Franklin

by Benjamin Franklin, Larzer Ziff (Editor)

It takes a very inclusive anthology to encompass the protean personality and range of interests of Benjamin Franklin, but The Portable Benjamin Franklin succeeds as no collection has. In addition to the complete Autobiography, the volume contains about 100 of Franklin’s major writings—essays, journalism, letters, political tracts, scientific observations, proposals for the improvement of civic and personal life, literary bagatelles, and private musings. The selections are reprinted in their entirety and organized chronologically within six sections that represent the full range of Franklin’s temperament. The result is a zestful read for Franklin scholars and anyone wanting to know and enjoy this American icon.

Genres: History, Biography, American, Politics, Autobiography

551 pages, Paperback

First published January 3, 2006

About the author

Benjamin Franklin was a writer, a philosopher, a scientist, a politician, a patriot, a Founding Father, an inventor, and publisher. He helped with the founding of the United States of America and changed the world with his discoveries about electricity. His writings such as Poor Richards' Almanac have provided wisdom for 17 years to the colonies.

Reviews

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprisingly challenging book and, just respect, mad respect. All hail B. Franklin, Printer of Philadelphia!

My new favorite: Dialogue Between Franklin and the Gout

Every time I think I know everything about him, I learn something new. For example, did you know that Benjamin Franklin loved swimming, that he was a leader in swimming education, and that he invented kiteboarding? He chased a whirlwind on his horse until a tree fell nearby "alerting him of the danger." He invented Daylight Savings Time? He exchanged letters with David Hume? It just goes on and on.

A huge blast of life radiates from these writings, 300 years after their composition.

[Wally Nobody · Rating 3 out of 5]

The most interesting part of the autobiography is the part about keeping the streets clean and well-lit at night. Otherwise, Franklin works overtime presenting himself as prim and moral, and let's face it, very proud.