Books like The Toothpaste Millionaire by Jean Merrill

Sixth‑grader Rufus Mayflower has always been a clever kid, but he never expected his latest challenge—to produce a gallon of toothpaste for the cost of a single tube—to spark a venture that could change his life forever. Together with his best friend Kate, Rufus sets up a homemade production line in their backyard, combining simple ingredients, steady research, and a lot of determination. Their project grows quickly, drawing neighbors’ curiosity and a growing customer base. The unexpected success of their entrepreneurial challenge turns into a thrilling story of friendship, resourcefulness, and the early spark of business acumen. Through their experience, readers see how innovation, persistence, and teamwork can turn a modest idea into a profitable enterprise, all within the bounds of a realistic, children‑friendly narrative.

First publish date: 1972