Benjamin Franklinstein Lives!

McElligott, Matthew and Tuxbury, Larry. 2010. BENJAMIN FRANKLINSTEIN LIVES! New York: Putman. ISBN 9780399252297 [Suggested Grade Levels 3-6]

REVIEW
Victor Godwin, a young science enthusiast, is more concerned with his school science fair project than with his new neighbor who bears a striking resemblance to Benjamin Franklin. With all the noises coming from downstairs, Victor is having trouble concentrating and decides to investigate. He finds a secret laboratory in the basement that he never knew existed and he also finds that Benjamin Franklin is alive and well. Maybe not well, but he is definitely alive. Franklin has been awakened from his suspended animation where he was supposed to remain until the country needed him. The only problem, Franklin is awake and is now having trouble finding any members of the Modern Order of Prometheus so he can figure out how he is supposed to help the country. Another problem is Franklin needs electricity to “charge his battery.” An overload can cause him to run amuck in a zombie-like state. Victor is having a hard time juggling helping Benjamin, keeping his secret, and working on a winning science fair project.

McElligott has scattered diagrams, charts, and graphs throughout the pages which adds to the scientific and historical feel of the book.
This book is packed with mystery, science, and exploding experiments, which are a blue ribbon winning combination!

CONNECTION
Students can research Benjamin Franklin’s original inventions. Discuss how our world would be different without his contributions.
Instead of a Science Fair, hold an “Invention Convention.”

RELATED BOOKS
Other books for students dealing with Science Fairs:
Barry, Dave and Ridley Pearson. SCIENCE FAIR. ISBN 9781423113249
Harris, Elizabeth Snoke. FIRST PLACE SCIENCE FAIR PROJECTS FOR INQUISTIVE KIDS. ISBN 9781579904937

By Jane Jergensen