Rating: 
Summary: Absorbing and informative...
Review: The biographies about old Ben Franklin, both juvenile and scholarly, would fill several bookshelves. He was a renaissance man in the truest sense of this term, as well as the quintessential man of the Enlightenment. What struck me about this particular biography was his approach to life - a curiosity that knew no bounds, and a sly, ironic wit - a man who did not take himself too seriously. Apart from his many scientific discoveries, he was a diplomat of great skill. In fact, if it weren't for Mr. Franklin, the American Revolution would have taken a different turn. He walked the halls of French power, networking, prodding, submerging himself amongst the French power brokers, creating alliances that changed the course of history: a courtier of the first order. He was also a ladies man, conducting deep though platonic relationships with the ladies of the French court. In many cases, these ladies of the court held the reigns of power, and knowing them furthered the American cause. Franklin was a complicated man, as geniuses can be, and this biography explores some of these contradictions of character, though in a way that is accessible for young readers and Franklin scholars. In other words, this is a highly entertaining biography for all readers interested in the life of this American legend.This biography is highly accessible because Isaacson is a talented writer; he combines the scholarly approach with a journalistic flair, presenting the facts of the subject in an entertaining form. Reading this book was an effortless experience; the pages seemed to turn themselves, as if the book was being read to me rather than actually reading it. This was a unique experience, which shows that Isaacson is at the top of his game. There have been many books written about this great man, but this one appears to be unique because its content is informative and its style, accessible and highly entertaining. If you want to learn a little American history and be absorbed at the same time, I highly recommend An American Life - excellent.
Rating:
Summary: A Great Read
Review: This author has done a superb job of selecting material and writes with clear, quick prose. The book is long but never boring.
Rating:
Summary: Even-handed bio of amazing American leader
Review: What an amazing guy! This book guides you through one of the most fascinating characters in american history - and one of the more engaging public servants. Not an overwhelming amount of info - also not nearly as dry as some historical bios are...
A great find!
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