Ben Franklin's Almanac: Being a True Account of the Good Gentleman's Life

Reach for this book when you notice your child is a 'tinkerer' who is constantly dismantling gadgets, asking deep questions about how society works, or feeling discouraged by their own early failures. It is the perfect antidote to dry history textbooks, offering a vibrant, multifaceted look at a man who was simultaneously a scientist, a writer, a politician, and a bit of a prankster. Candace Fleming uses a clever scrapbook format to explore Franklin's journey from a humble printer's apprentice to a world leader. Through high-quality illustrations, primary sources, and wit, the narrative emphasizes that genius is often the result of relentless curiosity and a willingness to try, fail, and try again. For ages 10 to 14, this book celebrates the power of the civic-minded individual and the importance of lifelong learning.