Ben Franklin and the Magic Squares

by Frank Murphy

Book Overview

A funny, entertaining introduction to Ben Franklin and his many inventions, including the story of how he created the magic square. A magic square is a box of nine numbers arranged so that any line of three numbers adds up to the same number, including on the diagonal Teachers and kids will love finding out about this popular teaching tool that is still used in elementary schools today

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0375806210
• ISBN13: 9780375806216
• Release Date: February 2001
• Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
• Length: 48 Pages
• Weight: 0.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 6.1" x 9.0"
• Age Range: 5 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Kindergarten to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

WOW!

what other book can make math interesting? and funny? Mr. Murphy has done it once again with his fabulous work! A++++++++++++! -Stephanie Connecticut

MY BOOK REVIEW BY THE COSMIC GENIUS

This book was great for kid's teenagers and adults. What I'm trying to say is that this book is suitable for all ages. I think elementary teachers should read this to their students. This book is great to teach kids about the past and how inventions are still used today, in different ways. I learned how Ben Franklin invented most of the instruments we use today; like the stove, bifocals, flippers and many other inventions. I encourage you to buy this book if you have young kids or not. Scott G(...)

Reading and Math Together

This is a whimsical book that still adheres fairly close to facts about the muti-talented Benjamin Franklin. (Frank Murphy notes on the last page that Franklin really did have a pet squirrel, something that I thought was the author's invention). The book highlights Franklin's lifelong knack for inventions and chronicles his achievements as a publisher, sciencist, writer, and patriot. The book also introduces magic squares, showing how Frankinn invented one as he sat, bored, waiting to take notes for the Pennsylvania Colonial Assembly. There's a good explanation of magic squares (a nine-cell table in which 3 numbers counted vertically, horizontally, or diagonally add to the same number), and instructions on how to make your own magic square. With 48 pages and colorful, evocative pictures, this book will appeal to the young reader, historian, and scientist.

A Magical Book

Frank Murphy has done an amazing job of making history fun. This is a great story, tying together a well-known figure and a classic math puzzle. On top of that, the illustrations are filled with humor. There is plenty for the eye to hunt out. From top to bottom, this is a wonderful book.

Historical Fun!

Mr. Murphy has a way of bringing history "to life" with his wonderful and witty account of Ben Franklin's tale. This book is extremely well written and will captivate an audience of any age. The younger children will enjoy the illustrations, especially Ben's pet squirrel Skugg, and older children creating their own magic squares! The fun continues well after you are finished reading the book! I am eagerly awaiting Mr. Murphy's next books!! (and "just a tip"... look for Mr. Murphy's picture at the end of the story!)