Benton's Venture

Benton's Venture is a young adult novel written by Ralph Henry Barbour and first published in 1911. The story follows the adventures of Benton, a teenage boy who lives with his wealthy uncle in a small New England town. Benton is curious and adventurous, and he dreams of exploring the world and making his own way in life. One day, Benton decides to follow his dream and embark on a journey to explore the American West. He sets out on his own, traveling by train and by foot, and he meets a diverse group of people along the way. Despite facing many challenges and obstacles, Benton remains determined to succeed and to carve out his own place in the world. As Benton journeys across the country, he faces various dangers and hardships, including a dangerous river crossing, a run-in with a group of robbers, and a severe illness. However, he also encounters many kind and helpful people who assist him on his journey. Throughout the novel, Benton learns important lessons about perseverance, self-reliance, and the importance of following one's dreams. He also learns to appreciate the kindness and generosity of others and to recognize the importance of community and human connections. In the end, Benton's journey leads him to a new understanding of himself and his place in the world, and he returns to his hometown a wiser and more mature young man.