Books About Benjamin Franklin

The Best Benjamin Franklin Books for Kids

Looking for our other guide?

Explore our editor-reviewed guide to Founding Fathers Books, featuring 12 favorites and recommendations by age.

Looking for excellent children's books about benjamin franklin? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Series

What Is the Declaration of Independence?

Series

Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Benjamin Franklin

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 5–10 · 2018

An Inconvenient Alphabet

By Beth Anderson, Elizabeth Baddeley (Illustrator)

Two patriots attempt to simplify English spelling, facing unexpected challenges.

48 pages· 1,180 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

6.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 335 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In 1786, Ben Franklin and Noah Webster embark on a mission to simplify English spelling. As they strive to align sounds with letters, they confront the complexities of language. Can these visionaries transform the alphabet and make reading easier for future generations? Discover the intriguing journey of two historical figures who dared to challenge linguistic norms.

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2020

I am Benjamin Franklin

By Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos (Illustrator) · Ordinary People Change the World series

Discover how curiosity shaped Benjamin Franklin's legacy in science and independence.

40 pages· 1,822 words· Est. 15 min read-aloud

4.5 Goodreads · 232 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Explore Benjamin Franklin's journey from curious child to influential Founding Father. Uncover his pivotal role in drafting the Declaration of Independence and his groundbreaking scientific discoveries. What drove his relentless pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement? This engaging biography reveals the childhood influences and key moments that defined Franklin's life, inspiring young readers to dream big and embody heroic traits. With a timeline, photos, and charming illustrations, this book brings history to life, encouraging kids to see the world through Franklin's inquisitive eyes. Dive into a story of innovation and determination that still resonates today.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2014

Mesmerized

By Mara Rockliff, Iacopo Bruno (Illustrator)

Can Franklin's science debunk Mesmer's mysterious powers?

Golden Kite Honor (2016)Orbis Pictus Honor (2016)

48 pages· 2,422 words· Est. 19 min read-aloud

4.2 Goodreads · 1,667 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In Paris, Benjamin Franklin encounters Dr. Mesmer, a man claiming to wield a magical force that captivates the city. Mesmer's shows promise miraculous cures and mind control, but Franklin remains skeptical. Armed with the scientific method, Franklin sets out to uncover the truth behind Mesmer's tricks. Will his logical approach unravel the mystery, or is there more to Mesmer's power than meets the eye? Dive into this historical tale of science versus spectacle, where the stakes are the very understanding of reality itself.

Sale price

$858

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2006

Now & Ben

By Gene Barretta

Discover how one man's genius shaped modern society.

40 pages

4.2 Goodreads · 1,184 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Imagine a world without libraries or fire departments. Benjamin Franklin did more than imagine—he created them. Dive into his inventive mind as he designs lightning rods and bifocals, forever changing our world. Explore the legacy of a visionary who turned ideas into reality, inspiring generations with his common sense and brilliance. What other innovations might he have inspired?

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2002

Who Was Ben Franklin?

By Dennis Brindell Fradin, Who HQ, John O'Brien (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

The life of Benjamin Franklin, from his childhood to his role in the American Revolution.

105 pages· 7,532 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.1 Goodreads · 2,154 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Explore the life of Benjamin Franklin, a man of many talents who uncovered the secrets of electricity with a kite. From inventor to statesman, his story is filled with humor, sadness, and awe. What mysteries did this extraordinary figure unravel, and how did his discoveries shape the world? Dive into a tale where science meets magic, and history comes alive.

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

What Is the Declaration of Independence?

By Michael C. Harris, Who HQ, Jerry Hoare (Illustrator) · What Was . . . ? series

The American colonies declare independence from Great Britain and form a new nation, the United States of America, through a series of events and decisions by key figures such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Benjamin Franklin.

112 pages· 8,583 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.1 Goodreads · 831 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In 1776, Thomas Jefferson feverishly drafts the Declaration of Independence, a bold move to sever ties with Britain and birth a new nation. As tensions rise, colonists face life-threatening risks for freedom. Discover the gripping story behind this radical document and the revolutionary fervor that ignited a war. Will their audacious gamble pay off, or will the dream of independence crumble under British might? Uncover the true events that shaped the United States and the daring individuals who dared to defy an empire.

Sale price

$2090

Chapter Book · 2003

Benjamin Franklin

By Walter Isaacson

Discover how a runaway apprentice shaped America's identity and democracy.

586 pages

4.0 Goodreads · 154,217 ratings

$22.00Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Follow Benjamin Franklin's journey from a runaway apprentice to a pivotal figure in American history. Explore his roles as a writer, inventor, and diplomat, and uncover the wit and wisdom that influenced the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. How did his vision and values forge a national identity that resonates today?

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2012

Electric Ben

By Robert Byrd

Discover Benjamin Franklin's genius through vibrant illustrations and fascinating facts.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (2013)Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor (2013)Golden Kite Honor (2013)Orbis Pictus Honor (2013)

40 pages· 12,002 words· Est. 1.5 hour read-aloud

4.0 Goodreads · 640 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Explore the life of Benjamin Franklin, America's first celebrity, through Robert Byrd's vivid illustrations and engaging text. From crafting the Constitution to inventing bifocals, Franklin's diverse achievements come alive. This book pulses with intriguing facts and quotes, offering a captivating tribute to a brilliant mind. What secrets of innovation and wisdom will you uncover in Franklin's extraordinary journey?

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2020

A Ben of All Trades

By Michael J. Rosen, Matt Tavares (Illustrator)

Young Ben Franklin's quest for a calling leads to unexpected genius.

32 pages

5.0/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 123 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Young Benjamin Franklin dreams of the sea, but his father insists on land-bound trades. Each failed attempt at a profession leaves Ben with newfound knowledge. Curious and inventive, he explores reading, swimming, and kite-flying, unknowingly paving his path to becoming a versatile genius. Discover how a restless boy's unconventional journey shapes a legendary figure in history, revealing the power of curiosity and variety.

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

The Eureka Key

By Sarah L. Thomson · Secrets of the Seven series

Kids race to find keys hidden by Founding Fathers, unlocking a secret weapon before a dangerous rival does.

240 pages· 48,139 words· Est. 6.5 hour read

4.0 Goodreads · 319 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Sam, Martina, and Theo embark on a thrilling quest across the U.S. to find seven keys hidden by the Founding Fathers. These keys unlock Benjamin Franklin's secret weapon, crucial for the nation's defense. But they're not alone—Gideon Arnold, a descendant of Benedict Arnold, is hot on their trail. With puzzles, riddles, and traps guarding each key, the stakes are high. Can they outsmart Gideon and uncover the nation's greatest secrets before it's too late?

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