A Princess of Mars is a science fiction novel written by Edgar Rice Burroughs, first serialized in 1912 and published as a book in 1917. It is the first book in the Barsoom series. The story follows John Carter, a Civil War veteran mysteriously transported to Mars (called Barsoom by its inhabitants). There, he discovers advanced civilizations, battles fierce creatures, and falls in love with Dejah Thoris, a Martian princess. The novel combines adventure, romance, and imaginative science fiction, introducing readers to a richly detailed Martian world.