A Princess of Mars

by Edward Rice Burroughs

A Princess of Mars is the first of eleven thrilling novels that comprise Edgar Rice Burroughs' most exciting saga. It's the beginning of an incredible odyssey in which John Carter, a gentleman from Virginia and a Civil War veteran, unexpectedly finds himself on to the red planet, scene of continuing combat among rival tribes. Captured by a band of six-limbed, green-skinned savage giants called Tharks, Carter soon is accorded all the honor of a chieftain after it's discovered that his muscles, accustomed to Earth's greater gravity, now give him a decided advantage in strength. And when his captors take as prisoner Dejah Thoris, the lovely human-looking princess of the city of Helium, Carter must call upon every ounce of strength, courage, and ingenuity to rescue her-before Dejah becomes the slave of the depraved Thark leader, Tal Hajus!

212 pages, Paperback

Published October 22, 2019

Reviews

[Robin Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't expect much from this book, I mean look at the cover art. But it's a favorite of my husband so I thought I'd give it a go. Color me impressed. After getting into the story I couldn't put it down. It's fast paced, fun, so well thought out, and imaginative. The action had my heart beating fast while the friendship, romance, and all of the noble virtues in this book warmed my heart at the same time. This book does not feel dated or old at all. The story feels fresh and vibrant and I loved it so much. I now see why this is a favorite of my husband, and now it is also an all time favorite of mine. I will be returning to see what happens next with John Carter of Virginia; warrior, hero, friend, and lover on Mars. Lesson learned: don't judge a book by its cover. 😊

*historical content warning: this book was written in 1912 so in the first chapter there are racist remarks calling Indigenous people "savages". It is a very small part and is reflective of the time in which the book was written. This is unfortunate and disturbing, however it does not in any way reflect the attitude or values of the rest of the book.

[Steven · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute classic. I know this author is more well known for Tarzan, but this was every bit as deserving of the movie that it got (which is based on this book, and not the other 10 books in this series). I already have the second book lined up and will definitely be continuing the series. I consider more fantasy than sci-fi, but either way, I like that it took the time to have romance in it, which I think helped round out the story and give clear and understandable motivation.

[Natasha · Rating 1 out of 5]

not my cup of tea.