Now & Ben - by Gene Barretta (Paperback)

About the Book

In this informative book, the author brings Benjamin Franklin's genius to life by giving a detailed look at Franklin's many inventions, from the lightning rod to his concept of daylight savings time.

Book Synopsis

The inventions and inspiration of Benjamin Franklin and how they've stood the test of time

What would you do if you lived in a community without a library, hospital, post office, or fire department? If you were Benjamin Franklin, you'd set up these organizations yourself. Franklin also designed the lightning rod, suggested the idea of daylight savings time, and invented bifocals-all inspired by his common sense and intelligence. In this informative book, Gene Barretta brings Benjamin Franklin's genius to life, deepening our appreciation for one of the most influential figures in American history.

Now & Ben is a 2007 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

Review Quotes

"The extraordinary sense of Franklin as a severely temporally displaced person gives [this book] its power to delight . . . charming illustrations." --The New York Times Book Review

"A clever, concise introduction to the contributions of this colorful colonial figure . . . sure to inspire readers to learn more about its fascinating subject." --School Library Journal

"Barretta leads readers from what they do know to what they probably don't . . . Read this one aloud." --The Horn Book Magazine

"With its breezy format and succinct text, the book delivers facts in an assuredly kid-friendly style." --Publishers Weekly

"A punchy read-aloud to lighten up American history units." --Booklist

About the Author

Gene Barretta is the author and illustrator of Neo Leo: The Ageless Ideas of Leonardo da Vinci, and Dear Deer, which was a Notable Children's Book in the Language Arts and listed on the Parenting Magazine Mom-Tested Books of the Year List. He holds a B.F.A. in Film Studies from New York University, and has worked for many years in film and television production. He lives in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, with his wife and son.