This biography is an excellent encapsulation of one of the greatest Renaissance men in American history. It provides an honest and fair account of Benjamin Franklin's indelible legacy, as well as his perceived shortcomings as a thought leader. Walter Isaacson, as always, has done an outstanding job.

Benjamin Franklin was a man of great wisdom, and his words still hold true today. He believed that it was necessary to be extremely frugal for some time until one had paid off their debts. He also emphasized the importance of speaking truth in every instance and aiming for sincerity in every word and action. Franklin believed that industry and patience were the surest means of achieving plenty, and he resolved to speak ill of no man whatever.

Franklin's wisdom and teachings have had a profound impact on American society and continue to inspire people around the world. His life serves as a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a commitment to living a virtuous life.

5 stars,

even though I’m not sure if I’m rating Ben Franklin’s life or the biographer’s work.

Ben Franklin is an iconic figure in American history, known for his numerous contributions in various fields such as science, politics, and literature. His life was filled with remarkable achievements and interesting experiences.

The biographer has done an excellent job of presenting Franklin's life in a detailed and engaging manner. The book provides a comprehensive overview of Franklin's early years, his rise to prominence, and his many accomplishments.

The writing is clear and accessible, making it easy for readers to understand and appreciate Franklin's life and work.

Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in American history or the life of Ben Franklin. It is a fascinating read that will leave you with a greater understanding and appreciation of this remarkable man.

Benjamin Franklin, the eldest of the Founding Fathers, had a truly remarkable life. This comprehensive biography details how he rose from being a printer's apprentice to a successful merchant, diplomat, politician, and scientist. Isaacson's work offers a very well-rounded portrayal of Franklin's character. He was a man who cherished having his family and friends nearby, yet he spent 15 of the last 17 years of his marriage in England while his wife remained in Philadelphia and ultimately passed away there. I was truly amazed to discover the extent of his fame in the latter part of his life and the crucial roles he played in the birth of the United States. This book is quite long, but it is without a doubt well worth reading. It provides a fascinating and in-depth look into the life and times of one of America's most important historical figures.

This was truly a pleasure to read and precisely the sort of biography that I consider trustworthy.

It is the kind that not only acknowledges other views and controversies but also comes with extensive notes and sources at the back.

Moreover, it is the rare biography that has the power to inspire smiles and even giggles. I would rate this up to five stars if I could give credit to Isaacson for that. The source of the humor lies in the frequent quotes from Benjamin Franklin himself.

Isaacson stated in his introduction that "Benjamin Franklin is the Founding Father who winks at us," and this proved to be accurate. His pragmatism and humor are the essence of his character.

Prior to reading this, if someone had asked me which Founding Father I would choose to have dinner and conversation with, I think I would have chosen Jefferson. However, after reading this, it is difficult not to name Franklin as a favorite and the one with the most charming personality, at least if you weren't married to him or one of his children.

Franklin has his faults, as goodness knows, and Isaacson does not shy away from them. Instead, they make him all the more touchingly human. I have heard it said that the Revolutionary War was really a civil war considering how the lines between Patriots and Loyalists divided families. Among all the Founding Fathers, the divide was sharpest for Benjamin Franklin, as his own son was the King's Governor of New Jersey and chose the opposing side. I was aware of this before reading this biography, but there was a great deal that I didn't know. For example, this man so closely associated with Philadelphia was actually born and raised in Boston and spent many years in England as well as Paris.

Isaacson, who has written biographies of Einstein and Steve Jobs, does justice not only to Franklin the statesman but also to the inventor and scientist. Throughout the book, and especially in his epilogue, he provides us not only with an assessment of the man but also the story of how he was received by others such as Sinclair Lewis, D.H. Lawrence, and John Updike. It is an engaging and lively biography.