Benjamin Franklin: An American Life
by Walter Isaacson
Publisher: Simon & Schuster, July, 2003

book reviewed by Kevin Quinn

For those who enjoy history, particularly the American Revolutionary period, "Benjamin Franklin: An American Life" is an enjoyable and spirited biography of a truly remarkable man. We all learn about Franklin in American History class. However, Isaacson picks out the actions and events that truly defined Franklin's character and the times in a great story of one of the world's greatest inventors.

The most telling invention from my point of view, was how Franklin, as told by Isaacson, continually re-invented and refined his role in society. During his 84-years, Franklin was a scientist, inventor, diplomat, writer, and business strategist. While he was not a profound thinker, he was one of the Revolution's most practical political thinkers.

Isaacson's helps us understand early decisions that later came to define Franklin as true leader of the American Revolution. Franklin's self-taught and can-do attitude come alive as Isaacson describes Franklin's career as a printer.

Isaacson shows the reader how industrious and versatile Franklin was even early in his career in not only his capacity to understand business, but his understanding of human nature and the politics of the times. These skills, elucidated in Franklin's later role as part of the American team sent to France, come alive again as Franklin works with a somewhat gruff partner in John Adams to bring along French support of the American war effort against England.

Isaacson tells these historical events as if he was standing unnoticed behind our two French ministers of the American Revolution. If you enjoy history, the American Revolution, science or just Ben Franklin, you will love this book.

Kevin Quinn is a principal with the law firm of Hinman Straub P.C.

*******

12/29/2003