The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

I haven’t yet read a full biography of Franklin (one of the next up on my to-read list is Isaacsons’) although I find him one of the most fascinating and important figures in history. So I thought that this, as an introduction to Franklin, would be a great first step. It was, although far different than I assumed.

Franklin writes this book for the use of his children, in order to for them understand the virtues he held and the decisions he made (most) during his early life that led him to become successful and “of good reputation.” It is therefore more or less a series of insights and anecdotes, rather than a comprehensive retelling of central events in his life.

Second, Franklin skips over some pretty important years during the prime of his life, jumping past the Revolutionary War to resume his notes in 1784, which of course is unfortunate, although the man was quite preoccupied. Overall, I would recommend this book, but would want to make sure a prospective reader knows what they are getting themselves into and doesn’t have the wrong incoming perception.