The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography brings this historical figure to life in new ways for readers. First, its first-person perspective allows us to glimpse into the thought processes of one of the United States’ founding figures. In doing so, we begin to better grasp Franklin’s philosophy for how to live well within a community. Second, this autobiography presents glimmers of Franklin’s character, for example, how he thought about charity and the best ways to carry it out. The breadth of Franklin’s writings in this work are truly noteworthy, so I recommend it at the very least as an example of how one can conceptualize and reflect on one’s life through important seasons.