Ben and Me: An Astonishing Life of Benjamin Franklin by His Good Mouse Amos

Explore the role of irony in the story. Identify and analyze three key ironies and their contribution to the narrative’s theme(s).

How do the illustrations enhance the narrative? Choose three and analyze their contributions to the novel’s mood and themes.

Ben believes in the wisdom of his maxims, while Amos does not. Analyze the wisdom and cultural value of at least three maxims that are included in the text.

What is the main conflict in the text? If Amos is the protagonist, who or what is his antagonist? Defend your choice with two or three reasons and textual evidence.

Consider Ben’s inclusion of Amos in his lightning experiment despite Amos’s refusal to participate. How similar is Ben’s attitude to scientists who use animals in their experiments today? Is it better to experiment on animals before testing on humans, or is it immoral—as Amos suggests—to use animals this way?

Is Ben worthy of being called a “hero”? Formulate three distinct reasons for your answer and use textual evidence to support each one.

Amos never apologizes to Ben for making changes to Poor Richard’s Almanack or Ben’s electrical machine prior to his exhibition. Given his intentions and the results of both situations, do you think he should? Why do you think Amos doesn’t feel obligated to apologize?

What situations or moments show that Ben might be more capable and intelligent than Amos believes him to be? Analyze three such moments to demonstrate that Franklin is not as helpless as Amos makes him seem.