in is considered one of the most famous and popular works in American literature. It has been said to be the first American book to be taken seriously by Europeans as a literary work. The work is a delightful self-portrait that has been translated into most every language. The work covers Franklin's life up to his prewar stay in London as representative of the Pennsylvania Assembly, including his childhood years, occupation as a printer, experiments with electricity, political career, as well as an accumulation of many more subjects. Franklin's account of his life is separated into four parts, reflecting upon the various periods during which he wrote them.