Ben Franklin And The Magic Squares (Turtleback School & Library Binding Edition) (Step Into Reading + Math A Step 3 Boo...

What if history could be taught through puzzles, wit, and a dash of magic? Ben Franklin And The Magic Squares by Frank Murphy does exactly that—transforming the legendary polymath Benjamin Franklin into an engaging, relatable figure for young readers. This Step Into Reading + Math book (Step 3 level) blends biography, mathematics, and storytelling into a charming package that educates while it entertains.

As someone who adores both history and clever storytelling, I was immediately drawn to this book. It’s not just a dry recounting of facts; it’s a lively adventure that makes learning irresistible. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or a curious young reader, this book offers something special.

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The book follows Benjamin Franklin—not just as a Founding Father, but as a curious, inventive thinker who loved puzzles. The story introduces young readers to Franklin’s fascination with numbers through his creation of magic squares—grids where the numbers in each row, column, and diagonal add up to the same sum.

Without giving away too much, the narrative cleverly weaves Franklin’s real-life experiments with numbers into a playful tale. Readers see him tinkering with these squares, using them to entertain friends, and even employing them as a mental exercise. The book doesn’t just tell us Franklin was smart—it shows his cleverness in action.

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Frank Murphy’s portrayal of Franklin is refreshingly human. Instead of a distant historical figure, we meet a man who:

• Loves challenges (he’s constantly testing his mind with puzzles)
• Enjoys sharing knowledge (he uses magic squares to amuse and teach others)
• Thrives on curiosity (his experiments aren’t just for science—they’re fun!)

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Murphy’s writing is clear, concise, and engaging, perfectly suited for early readers (Grades 1-3). The sentences are short but punchy, and the dialogue feels natural. The book avoids overwhelming kids with dense historical details, instead focusing on one fascinating aspect of Franklin’s life.

The illustrations (by Richard Walz) complement the text beautifully, adding humor and visual appeal. The playful art style keeps the tone light, ensuring that even math-averse readers stay hooked.

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At its core, Ben Franklin And The Magic Squares is about:

• The joy of problem-solving – Franklin doesn’t do math because he has to; he does it because it’s fun.
• Learning through play – The book reinforces that education doesn’t have to be boring.
• Historical curiosity – It sparks interest in Franklin’s other inventions and contributions.

These themes make the book a great gateway to discussions about history, math, and creativity.

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As an adult reader, I still found myself smiling at Franklin’s antics. The book’s charm lies in its ability to make history feel alive. I especially appreciated how it:

• Demystifies math – Magic squares are presented as a game, not a chore.
• Encourages hands-on learning – Kids will want to try making their own squares!
• Balances facts with fun – It never feels like a textbook.

If I had read this as a kid, I might’ve seen math in a whole new light.

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Compared to other early reader biographies (like Who Was Ben Franklin?), this book stands out for its narrow, playful focus. Instead of covering Franklin’s entire life, it zooms in on one quirky aspect—his love of puzzles. This makes it more digestible and memorable for young readers.

For kids who enjoy math-themed stories (like The Math Curse by Jon Scieszka), this book offers a historical twist on numerical play.

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✅ Perfect blend of history and math – Rarely do books merge these subjects so seamlessly.
✅ Encourages interactive learning – Readers will want to create their own magic squares.
✅ Engaging illustrations – The art adds warmth and humor.

❌ Very brief – At just 48 pages, some kids might want more depth.
❌ Limited scope – Those seeking a full Franklin biography will need supplemental material.

Still, these are minor quibbles for a book that excels at what it sets out to do.

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This book is ideal for:

• Early readers (Grades 1-3) – The Step 3 level is perfect for kids gaining confidence in reading.
• Math enthusiasts – Those who love puzzles will adore the magic square focus.
• History buffs in the making – A great intro to Franklin’s inventive mind.
• Teachers & parents – A fantastic read-aloud or classroom supplement.

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One delightful moment:

"Ben loved numbers. He loved how they fit together like puzzle pieces."

This simple line captures the book’s spirit—math isn’t intimidating; it’s a game waiting to be played.

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Franklin’s magic squares were real—he even published them in almanacs! The book subtly introduces:

• Colonial America’s intellectual culture – Franklin wasn’t just a politician; he was a thinker.
• The playful side of history – Learning wasn’t always formal; sometimes, it was pure fun.

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Ben Franklin And The Magic Squares is a gem—a book that makes history and math exciting. It’s short, sweet, and packed with charm. Whether you’re looking for a fun read or a clever educational tool, this book delivers.

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Discussion Questions for Readers:

• Have you ever tried making a magic square? How did it go?
• What other historical figures would you like to see in a playful book like this?
• Do you think math is more fun when it’s turned into a game?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments! 📚✨

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