Ben Franklin and the Magic Squares

“Ben Franklin and the Magic Squares” by Frank Murphy is a 48-page book published by Random House in 2001. This edition presents an engaging exploration of Benjamin Franklin’s inventive spirit, detailing how he created a puzzle known as the magic square during his time as a clerk for the Pennsylvania Assembly. The book offers readers insight into Franklin’s life and his creative problem-solving methods, making it a valuable resource for those interested in both historical figures and mathematical concepts.

Readers will find step-by-step instructions for creating their own magic squares, encouraging hands-on engagement with the material. The book combines elements of juvenile nonfiction and fiction, making it suitable for young audiences while also touching on themes related to mathematics and historical contexts. With its focus on concepts of size and shape, as well as the colonial and revolutionary periods in the United States, this work serves as both an educational tool and a biographical account of one of America’s founding figures.