The Medford Public Library, Medford Historical Society & Museum, and Friends of the Medford Public Library begin a new History Book Group with a virtual discussion of “Book of Ages: The Life and Opinions of Jane Franklin,” by Jill Lapore (2013). Lepore examines Benjamin Franklin’s youngest sister, Jane Franklin, who like her brother was a passionate reader, a gifted writer, and a shrewd political commentator. She also was a mother of 12. Benjamin Franklin wrote more letters to his sister than anyone else, though they leave very different historical traces behind. Making use of little-studied material, including documents, objects, and portraits, Lepore illuminates the life of Jane Franklin and the way women’s lives are often lost to history.

The discussion will be led by Kyna Hamill, Director of the Core Curriculum program at Boston University and a reference volunteer at the MHSM.

Copies of the book will be available approximately four weeks in advance. Call the library at 781-395-7950 to have a copy checked out to you for no-contact pickup.

Register for the Book Group discussion through the calendar on the library’s website: https://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=MEDFORD&curID=459461