The boy who became a printer, inventor, statesman — and above all, a great American

Benjamin Franklin's life sounds like a story someone might imagine. A runaway boy, he grew up to be one of the great leaders of his country.

Arriving in Philadelphia as a boy in his teens, he went into the printing trade, which he had learned with his brother in Boston. He became well known as a printer, inventor, and member of the Pennsylvania legislature. 

As a revolt against the British became more and more likely, Franklin tried desperately to keep the colonies and England together. But he finally decided that war was necessary, no one worked harder for his young country. On an important and dangerous journey to France, he persuaded that nation to help the struggling colonies—a big step toward the winning of freedom. Later, Franklin with his wise advice played a part in the writing of the constitution. 

The Real Book About Benjamin Franklin carries the reader into the stirring world of Benjamin Franklin—a brilliant, colorful and exciting American. 

From the dust jacket