In the 1860’s it was unusual for babies to be born in hospitals, but that was not the most unusual thing about Benjamin’s birth. He was born looking like a 70-year-old man. Determined to make the best of it, Benjamin’s father orders him to shave his whiskers, dye his hair, play with toys, and stop smoking cigars. Benjamin grows younger with each passing year. He marries a woman who will grow older as he becomes youthful. He has a son who advises him to “turn right around and go back the other way before its too late.” He is able to attend kindergarten with his grandson until the boy moves into first grade and Benjamin remains behind.

I’m looking forward to the movie, but I expect the film will be quite different from this sweet, touching, and funny story about age and expectations. I recommend you read the story before the film is released.