BENJAMIN FRANKLIN

Printer, inventor, diplomat, Poor Richard is the subject of Clara Ingram Judson's latest biography of great Americans. Her presentation suggests the catholicity of interests and abilities which distinguished him. The imperishable legends are here -- his trip to Philadelphia, his apprenticeship in boyhood as a printer, as spokesman for America denigrating the Stamp Act in England, as a gouty and unorthodox representative in Passy, who negotiated an alliance with France, and consummately as signer of the Declaration of Independence. Robert Frankenberg's illustrations convey the architecture of Philadelphia and Boston and of Colonial attire. The focus is chiefly on Franklin's achievements; his family life is muted background. The binding is exceptionally sturdy.