Edgar Rice Burroughs

The Efficiency Expert Annotated Edgar Rice Burroughs

The Efficiency Expert is a 1921 small number of Burroughs' novels set in contemporary America as opposed to a fantasy universe, The Efficiency Expert follows the quests of Jimmy Torrance as he attempts to make a career for himself in 1921 Chicago. The book is remarkable for the criminal livelihoods of the hero's friends. Jimmy Torrance, football player, boxer, socialite, athlete and all-around Big Man On Campus, is nearly kicked out of university, but upon imploring for a second chance, he is approved one and successfully graduates. Rejecting an offer from his father to come work for the family business, he determines to make something of himself first, and repairs to Chicago. However, nothing comes of his many attempts to find work, and he despairs. Bince, who has persuaded Elizabeth to marry him, is exposed and commits suicide. A sadder and wiser Elizabeth asks Torrance to take over as manager of the factory.