Mesmerized: How Ben Franklin Solved a Mystery That Baffled All of France

Paris is abuzz with Dr. Franz Mesmer's spectacular shows, where he claims to control a mysterious force that can heal, change tastes, and influence thoughts. When American inventor and statesman Benjamin Franklin arrives, he is intrigued by the bold claims and decides to test them using careful observation and experimentation. Through a series of clever experiments, Franklin reveals the tricks behind Mesmer's performances and uncovers the true nature of the phenomenon. The book recounts a real historical showdown between spectacle and science, highlighting the power of the scientific method.