Reviews
Amazing Ben Franklin Inventions You Can Build Yourself

"What do bifocals, paper money, and lightning rods have in common? All were invented or influenced by scientist and politician Ben Franklin. A brilliant man, Franklin not only helped found America, but by following his keen intellectual curiosity, he opened the door to many inventions that people still find useful. Van Vleet combines an easy-to-read biography of Franklin with step-by-step instructions for building some of his inventions. Examples include the armonica, a musical instrument made of glasses containing water, a rudimentary printing press based on the one used by Ben Franklin to print his popular newspaper, The Pennsylvania Gazette, and a piggy bank, representing Franklin's maxim that "a penny saved is a penny earned." Readers also learn about Franklin's famous experiments with electricity, his standardization of the United States Postal Service, and his role in establishing U.S. independence."
— Science News www.sciencenews.org, October 13, 2007

"This imaginative book encourages kids to explore their world and learn some history while building projects relating to Ben's many accomplishments. The projects are both instructive and fun, two things Ben would heartily approve. As Ben himself might have said, 'Huzzah!'"
—John C. Van Horne, Director of The Library Company of Philadelphia,
founded in 1731 by Benjamin Franklin

"You're never too young to learn about Ben Franklin, and Carmella Van Vleet gives you a great introduction. My own children grabbed the book away from me as soon as a copy arrived. I only wish my library would have had this book when I was a child."
—Blaine McCormick, author, Ben Franklin: America's Original Entrepreneur

"Ben Franklin Rules!!!, Being a teacher of gifted and high achieving students, I'm always on the look out for ways to tie Social Studies and Science together. My class loves hands-on projects, so I thought this might be a good fit for us. Boy, was I right! The projects are easy to follow, the steps and supplies are well planned, and most importantly, the kids LOVED the projects. Wave bottles were a major hit, and we'll be making Bubble Bath next.

The historic details about Ben's life were not only great additions to the descriptions of his inventions, but there were lots of quirky details about him that my kids loved (although they're going to skip the air baths!).

I'll definitely pick up more of Ms. Van Vleet's project-based books to use with my class!"
—December 7, 2007 E. Ryan (S FL)

"Ben Franklin is one of the most famous Americans. His contributions to the worlds of government, science, publishing, and farming are still with us today. Many of his inventions are simple enough for children to try at home. Van Vleet has not only created a fun, step-by-step guide to some of his inventions, she accompanies each invention with background information about Franklin and relevant history. This book goes far beyond the usual kites and invisible ink common to most books about Franklin. Instructions for making your own watermark paper, thermometers, solar ovens, and even baked apples are included. In addition to having “Words to know” sections in each chapter, there is also a thorough glossary and timeline. This book is an excellent source for science experiments, arts and crafts, historical exercises, and just plain fun! "
—Amie Rose Rotruck (Children’s Literature)