True to His Home: A Tale of the Boyhood of Franklin

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26442

Title

True to His Home: A Tale of the Boyhood of Franklin

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This historical fiction chronicles the boyhood of Benjamin Franklin, blending fact with narrative to illustrate his moral development. Through episodes involving his family, Uncle Benjamin, and early struggles in Philadelphia, the story emphasizes frugality, integrity, and the pursuit of public good. Illustrated with period charm, it offers young readers an engaging look at the formative years of a Founding Father.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in early 18th-century Boston and Philadelphia, *True to His Home: A Tale of the Boyhood of Franklin* by Hezekiah Butterworth chronicles the life of Benjamin Franklin from his humble beginnings as the fifteenth child of a tallow chandler to his emergence as a renowned printer and statesman. The narrative opens with Franklin's christening, where his father, Josiah, honors his poet brother in England by naming the boy 'Benjamin.' The story highlights the family's modest circumstances and the profound influence of Uncle Benjamin, a failed poet whose lost library of pamphlets Franklin later discovers in London, a singular event that bridges his childhood and adulthood. Central to the tale is the deep bond between Benjamin and his sister, Jenny. Through key episodes, the book illustrates the moral education Franklin received at home. A defining moment occurs when a patron offers Franklin a defamatory article to boost his paper's circulation. Despite his poverty, Franklin refuses to print the scurrilous piece, choosing to sleep on the office floor and subsist on a twopenny roll rather than compromise his integrity. This decision establishes his character as a man who values justice over wealth. The narrative also explores the theme of industry versus vanity through Franklin's gift to Jenny. Expecting a musical instrument like a spinet, she receives a practical spinning wheel instead. This homely gift, accompanied by advice on modesty and hard work, teaches her that industry is more commendable than beauty or vanity. As Franklin travels to London, faces poverty, and eventually returns to America, he learns the wisdom of frugality and self-reliance from the allegorical figure 'Mr. Calamity,' who represents the dangers of debt and pride. The text weaves historical facts with fictionalized dialogue to detail Franklin's scientific curiosity, his interactions with figures like Governor Keith, and his contributions to the American cause, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Treaty of Peace. Throughout his career, Franklin remains true to the unselfish counsels of his home, demonstrating an enduring legacy of public service and moral fortitude.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg26442.epub

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Categories

• Biography
• Fiction