Benjamin Franklin's Wise Words: How To Work Smart, Play Well, and Make Real Friends

Gr 3–5—This introduction to Benjamin Franklin's proverbs is arranged in a consistent, pleasing, and structured manner. Franklin's maxims are divided into chapters based on moral principles, such as "Tranquility," "Humility," and "Moderation." Franklin's well-known adages ("Honesty is the best policy," "Fish and visitors stink in 3 days"), as well as lesser-known ones ("You may delay, but time will not," "Diligence is the mother of good luck"), make good food for thought. Kostyal provides the original 18th-century saying, "Search others for their virtues, thy self for thy vices," along with a modern adaptation ("Look for the good stuff in other people, but check yourself for ways you could improve"). Each verso and recto complement each other, offering a proverb with two or three expository paragraphs and corresponding art. Harper's illustrations are all brightly colored and oftentimes humorous. Cartoonish yet believable, they evoke the essence of each saying. The people in the artwork are presented in proper 18th-century settings and attire. The book finishes with descriptions of Franklin's inventions, including bifocal glasses, the Franklin stove, and swim paddles.