In this whimsical look at a fascinating real-life moment in history, readers discover how straightforward American inventor Benjamin Franklin's scientific methods are challenged by the mysterious powers and elaborate stage shows of a certain Dr. Mesmer in Paris, France. Full color.
"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.