A Princess of Mars

The first novel of the Barsoom series, presented with an introduction by Darrell Schweitzer, establishing one of the foundational works of planetary adventure fiction. First published in 1912, A Princess of Mars introduces John Carter, a soldier unexpectedly transported to Mars-known as Barsoom-where he becomes involved in the conflicts, cultures, and alliances of a dying world. Through Carter‘s encounters with the various peoples of Mars, including the Tharks and the city-states of Helium, Burroughs develops a narrative combining action, romance, and imaginative world-building. The novel established many of the defining elements of the planetary romance genre, influencing subsequent science fiction and adventure writing. Its pacing, clarity of structure, and sustained narrative momentum contributed to its wide readership and enduring popularity. Darrell Schweitzer‘s introduction situates the work within the broader history of speculative fiction, offering context for its lasting influence and continued relevance.