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

Walter Isaacson is the bestselling author of biographies of Jennifer Doudna, Leonardo da Vinci, Steve Jobs, Benjamin Franklin, and Albert Einstein. He is a professor of history at Tulane and was CEO of the Aspen Institute, chair of CNN, and editor of Time. He was awarded the National Humanities Medal in 2023. Visit him at Isaacson.Tulane.edu.

Product Details

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

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