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A Benjamin Franklin Reader

About The Book

A selection of Benjamin Franklin’s writings, with an introduction and commentary by renowned author Walter Isaacson.

Selected and annotated by the author of the acclaimed Benjamin Franklin: An American Life, this collection of Franklin’s writings shows why he was the bestselling author of his day and remains America’s favorite founder and wit. Includes an introductory essay exploring Franklin’s life and impact as a writer, and each piece is accompanied by a preface and notes that provide background, context, and analysis.

About The Author

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Walter Isaacson, University Professor of History at Tulane, has been CEO of the Aspen Institute, chairman of CNN, and editor of Time magazine. He is the author of Leonardo da Vinci; The Innovators; Steve Jobs; Einstein: His Life and Universe; Benjamin Franklin: An American Life; and Kissinger: A Biography, and the co-author of The Wise Men: Six Friends and the World They Made. He and his wife live in New Orleans. Facebook: Walter Isaacson, Twitter: @WalterIsaacson

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster (June 15, 2005)
  • Length: 576 pages
  • ISBN13: 9780743274838

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Raves and Reviews

"In its common sense, clarity, and accessibility, it is a fitting reflection of Franklin's sly pragmatism....This may be the book that most powerfully drives a new pendulum swing of the Franklin reputation."

– The New York Times

"The most readable full-length Franklin biography available."

– The Washington Post Book World

"A thoroughly researched, crisply written, convincingly argued chronicle."

– The New York Times Book Review

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