Benjamin Franklin

Name: Benjamin Franklin
Brand: Simon & Schuster
SKU: 9780684807614
Price: 69.99 NZD
Availability: OutOfStock

An American Life

By Walter Isaacson

4.04

( 141,678 ratings, 2,885 reviews)

Summary

Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson is a detailed biography that explores the multifaceted life of one of America's Founding Fathers. The book delves into Franklin's contributions as a statesman, inventor, and writer, highlighting his role in shaping American society. It paints a vivid picture of his personal and professional journey, offering insights into his character and achievements.
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Format: Hardback

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy detailed biographies of influential figures, blending personal anecdotes with historical events, and appreciate insights into the life and mind of one of America's founding fathers.

Benjamin Franklin

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Description

Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson is a masterfully written biography that offers readers an in-depth and compelling look at one of America’s most complex and influential Founding Fathers. This comprehensive account unravels Franklin's life story, tracing his journey from a modest upbringing in Boston to becoming a prominent figure on the world stage in cities like Philadelphia, London, and Paris. Franklin's life is detailed with vivid storytelling, illuminating his transformation from an ambitious runaway apprentice to an influential inventor, media mogul, scientist, diplomat, and political leader in America.

Walter Isaacson, acclaimed biographer of renowned figures such as Albert Einstein and Steve Jobs, brings his formidable narrative talents to this exhaustive biography of Benjamin Franklin. The book delves into Franklin’s multifaceted persona, capturing the essence of a man who was not only a prolific writer and shrewd inventor but also a brilliant strategist and statesman. Isaacson’s narrative covers Franklin’s role in significant historic milestones, such as drafting the Declaration of Independence, securing the alliance with France during the American Revolution, and negotiating the treaty that ended the conflict. The biography further explores Franklin's contributions to the formation of a new nation, detailing his involvement in the compromises that led to the creation of the U.S. Constitution.

Franklin’s intellectual pursuits and practical inventions are chronicled with meticulous detail. The biography offers insights into his creation of the lightning rod, bifocals, and the Franklin stove, among other innovations. It also enlivens the wit and wisdom of his writings, especially through his iconic publication, Poor Richard’s Almanac. Isaacson paints a full portrait of Franklin’s scientific curiosity, media empire, and his unique ability to fuse idealism with pragmatic solutions.

What sets this biography apart is Isaacson’s ability to humanize Franklin, presenting him as a figure of flesh and blood, full of contradictions and charm. The book leans into Franklin’s personable traits, his shrewd diplomacy, and his enduring legacy in shaping American values and society. Isaacson’s portrayal is both intimate and expansive, relating Franklin's life experiences to the broader themes of innovation, civic virtue, and social responsibility.

Benjamin Franklin is not just a recount of accomplishments but a rich narrative that reveals the character and intellect of a man whose ideas and endeavours continue to resonate. It is a profound exploration into how Franklin’s ingenuity and philosophical outlook helped frame the fabric of American identity, making his journey particularly relevant even in the twenty-first century.

Isaacson’s biography of Benjamin Franklin is an essential read for anyone interested in the origins of the American experiment, the Enlightenment era, and the enduring spirit of innovation and democracy that Franklin so greatly embodied. With its engaging prose and in-depth research, Benjamin Franklin stands as a monumental tribute to a seminal figure in history.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson is praised for its thorough research, clear writing, and engaging narrative. Reviewers appreciate its accessibility and lively presentation, making it an excellent and readable biography that effectively captures Franklin's multifaceted personality and achievements.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780684807614

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 04 August 2003

Country: United States

Imprint: Simon & Schuster

Illustration: 16pp 4-c insert; printed endpapers; rough front

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 43.0mm

Width: 159.0mm

Height: 235.0mm

Weight: 966g

Pages: 608

Collections

American & Canadian History Biography & Memoir History & Military Non-Fiction Political Biographies Tim's Books Walter Isaacson

About the Author

Walter Isaacson recently stepped down from his position as chairman and CEO of the CNN News Group. A journalist for more than 25 years, he previously served as Time Inc.'s editorial director and as Time magazine's managing editor, national affairs writer and political correspondent. A graduate of Harvard and Oxford University, where he was a Rhode Scholar, he is the author of Kissinger: A Biography (S&S, 1992) and co-author (with Evan Thomas) of The Wise Men: Six Friends And The World They Made (S&S, 1986).