What's the Big Idea, Ben Franklin?

Reach for this book when you notice your child is a constant tinkerer, an endless question-asker, or someone who struggles to sit still in a traditional classroom setting. This lighthearted biography introduces Benjamin Franklin not as a remote historical figure, but as a lively, curious boy who never stopped looking for ways to make the world work better. It celebrates the messiness of experimentation and the joy of finding one's own path. Jean Fritz humanizes the 'Founding Father' by focusing on his quirky inventions, his love of swimming, and his insatiable appetite for books and printing. The story emphasizes that being 'smart' isn't just about knowing facts, it is about having 'big ideas' and the grit to test them out. It is a perfect choice for 7 to 10 year olds who are starting to explore history but still need a narrative that feels relatable and funny.