During a trip to secure funding for the struggling revolution, Benjamin Franklin gets pulled into a scientific quandary involving a Dr. Mesmer, the human mind, and the first use of a "blind study" in scientific research. This unforgettable story is complemented by intriguing and intricate illustrations, creating a truly mesmerizing reading experience. Highly recommended! “Together, Rockliff and Bruno make the scientific method seem exciting, and kids interested in science and history will likely be, well, mesmerized.” — Booklist (starred review)

When American inventor Benjamin Franklin arrives in Paris, he is upstaged by a compelling and enigmatic figure: Dr. Mesmer. In elaborately staged shows, Mesmer has Parisians believing he can control a magic force that changes the taste of water, cures illness, and controls thoughts! Can Ben Franklin’s approach of observing, hypothesizing, and testing get to the bottom of Mesmer’s tricks? A rip-roaring, lavishly illustrated peek into a fascinating moment in history shows the development of the scientific method — and reveals the amazing power of the human mind.