Michael Dooling – illustratör

Now available in paperback for the first time, James Cross Giblin and Michael Dooling tell the story of the man known as the "wisest American."

Benjamin Franklin was one of seventeen children, and the youngest of 10 sons. To help out with the family, he was put to work when he was 10 years old in his father's candle and soap-making shop. Ben hated making soap and candles. Since he was smart and a good speller and he loved to read, he later went to work in his brother's print shop as an apprentice. He read book after book, and soon began to write himself. By 18, he moved to Philadelphia where he eventually openend his own print shop. By age 28 he published "Poor Richard's Almanac," a best seller in Colonial America.

This moving story of a Jewish family's immigration to American from Russia may be jeopardized by a young cousin's bond with a worn-out coat.At the turn-of-the century, a Jewish family must leave Russia when the Cossacks raid the country. Grandma Bubba tries to convince Grisha, her grandson, to leave behind an old coat that might prevent him from being accepted at Ellis Island upon the family's arrival in America. Grisha refuses since the coat is lined with wool from the coat of his deceased mother. The family begins their transatlantic journey, but when they arrive at Ellis Island, Grisha is threatened with deportation until his cousin Rachel comes up with a plan to save him. Woodruff's historical detail is based on research she discovered at the Ellis Island museum.A fine introduction to European immigration for young readers ages four to eight. A moving example of familial love.