Benton's Venture

by Ralph Henry Barbour

"Benton's Venture" by Ralph Henry Barbour is a young adult novel written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the ambitions and entrepreneurial spirit of a high school student named Tom Benton, who dreams of buying and fixing up a dilapidated automobile to start a business. Through the eyes of Tom and his friend Willard, it explores themes of friendship, determination, and the desire to make money through innovative ideas. The opening of "Benton's Venture" introduces us to Tom Benton, a seventeen-year-old with aspirations for entrepreneurship. After a chance encounter with an automobile dealer, Tom becomes fascinated with the idea of buying an old, rundown car and using it to transport passengers from the train station to local destinations, which he believes would be profitable. Tom shares his plans with his friend Willard Morris, who becomes intrigued by the idea and suggests they go into business together, pooling their resources to buy the car. As they discuss the feasibility of this venture, we see Tom grappling with challenges including financial limitations and the expectations of his father, who advises caution despite Tom's enthusiasm and belief in his potential success. This sets the stage for an engaging tale of youthful ambition and partnership.