Ben and Me:  An Astonishing Life of Benjamin Franklin by His Good Mouse Amos By
Robert Lawson published in 1939

Summary
Robert Lawson weaves a fantastical tale as  he writes a biography about one of America greatest founding fathers; Benjamin Franklin. The remarkable life of old Ben Franklin is related with wit, warmth and wisdom by Amos, a mouse who has a way with words. The novel is marvelous for children. It is educational. It teaches a lot about the founding of the country and mainly about one of the men who made it possible. Ben and Me is fabulously entertaining. Amos's own adventures are thrilling, and his stories about Ben are hilarious. Any child or adult with a sense of humor will laugh at this book. Anyone who reads this book will learn while laughing. Robert Lawson is also the author of such works as The Wee Men of Ballywooden,
Captain Kidd's Cat, and Rabbit Hill.

Activities
Students can do some research about the pets of other famous people throughout history. They would then pick their favorite person and write a story similar to Ben and Me through the eyes of the pet. Another assignment that I would have them do is to pick someone prominent during the American Revolution to do a report on. The students will have the choice to do an 3-5 minute oral report, a written report, or a poster board.