Families who loved A Princess of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your middle or high schooler is looking for a classic adventure that balances high-stakes action with questions about honor and belonging. This foundational work of science fantasy follows John Carter, a Civil War veteran who is mysteriously transported to Mars (Barsoom). On this dying planet, he must navigate a complex society of four-armed green warriors and humanoid red Martians. The story explores themes of bravery, cross-cultural friendship, and the pursuit of justice in a harsh environment. While it is a thrilling page-turner, parents should be aware of the 1912 pulp style, which includes frequent combat and a chivalric, though dated, romance. It is an excellent choice for building vocabulary and discussing the evolution of the science fiction genre.