A Princess of Mars

"A Princess of Mars" by Edgar Rice Burroughs follows John Carter, a Confederate veteran who is mysteriously transported to Mars, known as Barsoom. On this alien planet, he gains superhuman strength due to the lower gravity. Carter becomes embroiled in the planet's conflicts, befriending the Thark warrior Tars Tarkas and falling in love with Dejah Thoris, the captive princess of Helium. Battling various Martian species, he seeks to save Dejah and bring peace to Barsoom. The novel blends adventure, romance, and science fiction, marking the beginning of Burroughs' Barsoom series.