Benjamin Franklin was not only one of America's Founding Fathers—he was also a fascinating character who lived an exciting life. Whether carousing with prostitutes in Paris, taunting lightning bolts with kites, or founding America's first volunteer firefighting organization, Franklin was always at the center of activity. The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin details this American's early years, his career, and his conflicted relationship with his son.
Download and start listening now!
"This book was really good. Franklin had some amazing insights into how a person should approach different life situations. A lot of good advice. I would recommend this as a read for high school kids or young people looking for some sound, time-tested advice on life. The only bad part of this book is that it can be a little daunting with Franklin's style of writing, kind of like one long thought that never ends at times. It felt like it took me forever to finish the book but well worth the read."
— Doreen (4 out of 5 stars)
" Sometimes it was difficult to get through, but other times was an easy read. I always knew Ben Franklin was smart, but it's only recently that I've learned just how smart and funny he was. And so real. I especially enjoyed the section where he explains how he "...conceiv'd the bold and arduous project of arriving at moral perfection." He includes a full description and even includes a sample of the charts he used. The original self-help book! "
— Barbara, 2/11/2014" It is interesting to read about his life from his point of view. The things that I remember him for are not the things that he notes as the most important or memorable. His system for self improvement was ingenious. Ben Franklin became one of my hero's after reading this book. "
— Leighann, 2/3/2014" I don't know if this is the exact book that I read. I did learn a lot about BF. He was a very religious man. He didn't think any one church was right. He was a printer and a very successful business man. He wrote some works under a different name because some people didn't like him, but accepted his work under a different name. This book didn't dwell on his discovery of electricity, but electricity was mentioned. I enjoyed learning more about him. "
— Betty, 2/3/2014" zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. snoose--and this from a self-confessed history lover and general geek.... "
— Lisa, 1/30/2014" a few nuggets of wisdom, but otherwise an endless account of his comings and goings "
— Latika, 1/18/2014" DNF. But maybe can try again. "
— Duane, 1/17/2014" I read this about once every year or two. It's not very long so if you have a lazy day it's easy to read in one sitting. Benjamin Franklin was a true scholar, and having his life story from Franklin's point of view is really interesting. "
— Abriana, 1/16/2014" What a book on life! Ben Franklin teaches through his mistakes and successes and helps one think about how one lives in a different way. An enjoyable read, especially considering it was written so long ago. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT "
— Brentley, 1/10/2014" Finally finished. It's only 103 pages but it took me a long time to read... He is brilliant and oh so funny. At least the parts I could understand, I'm sure there were things that went over me head. :) So glad that I read it! "
— Liz, 11/13/2013" Fascinating read! I wish he had written more of his personal life and of his wife and kids. "
— Shiloah, 9/5/2013" It was fun to see what kinds of things Ben Franklin was interested. His way of thinking is unique. I love that he was always coming up with ideas to make things better, and then carrying those ideas out. He didn't wait for someone else to do it. "
— Tiffany, 7/16/2013Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) was born in Boston, Massachusetts. He is one of the most celebrated figures in American history.
Fredd Wayne’s career includes stage, film, and television performances. He is the creator and performer of Benjamin Franklin, Citizen, which he performed off Broadway and toured with throughout Europe.