| Title
Benjamin Franklin’s Bastard: A Novel
Author Sally Cabot Publisher William Morrow ISBN 9780062241924 Pub Date May 7, 2013Category Fiction, Historical |
Summary:
An absorbing and compelling work of literary historical fiction that brings to life a little-known chapter of the American Revolution-the story of Benjamin Franklin and his bastard son, and the women who loved them both
Born in secret to his father’s favorite mistress, William Franklin grows up under the guidance of his father, Benjamin, a brilliant and ambitious printer in prosperous colonial Philadelphia. Unlike many bastards, William’s childhood is filled with love and wonder, thanks to a pair of special women: Anne, the mother who gave him life, and Deborah, the mother who raises him as her own.
As the years pass, the bustling Colonies grow and prosper, offering opportunities for wealth and power for a talented man like Benjamin Franklin. His father’s rising fame and connections as a scientist, writer, philosopher, and political genius open doors for the astute William as well, and eventually Benjamin’s bastard son is named the new Royal Governor of New Jersey.
But all that William has achieved is threatened when the colonies-led by influential figures, including his own father-begin the fight for independence. A steadfast loyal subject, William cannot accept his father’s passionate defense of the patriot cause, and the enduring bond they share fractures-a heart-wrenching break that will forever haunt them and those they love.
A poignant tale of family, love, and war, Benjamin Franklin’s Bastard skillfully brings into focus a cast of remarkable characters drawn from real life and vividly recreates one of the most remarkable periods of history-the birth of the American nation.
My Thoughts:
This was an interesting book. The time period that this book takes place in is one that I really enjoy and provides a wonderful backdrop to the story. Franklin, Deborah and Anne are interesting characters and the circumstances that brings them together and keeps bringing them together is Franklin and Ann’s son William. It is fun seeing these characters grow and to see them try to survive their circumstances. Through the good and the bad. I think that what I take away most from this book is the fact that as parents we can really only advice and point our kids in the correct direction, but it is up to them to decide for themselves what to do. And at some point as a parent we just have to let them go and sink or swim on their own. Also as kids it is important to listen to our elders, because they might just have the knowledge and experience to guide us in the right way.
If you enjoy this time period and these historical characters you will enjoy this book. I know that I did.
Over All Rating: 3 / 5 Stars
Disclosure: This book was provided to me by the publisher via Edelweiss. The rating, review, and all opinions are my own
