Though he’s best known as the creator of Tarzan, Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875-1950) cut his teeth penning science fiction books with a tale called Dejah Thoris, Martian Princess. Thus his 11-book Barsoom series, featuring John Carter, Warlord of Mars, was born. Begun in 1911, these Martian stories would inspire countless writers, including Ray Bradbury and Carl Sagan. They would also enable Burroughs to write science fiction books full time. In fact, he became so popular that even to this day, it’s likely you’ll find at least one Edgar Rice Burroughs book in every sci-fi fantasy book lover’s collection.

Before he turned to writing, though, Burroughs had inspiration—and adventures—of his own: riding the range, herding cattle and getting to know a few rough-and-tumble characters in the months he spent on an Idaho cattle ranch as a teen. Later, at the Michigan Military Academy, he became a crack shot and trick rider, and in the U.S. Cavalry, he chased Apaches. So it’s no wonder that John Carter engaged in such swashbuckling adventures—and that this sci-fi fantasy book author’s many fans can expect a great read every time they pick up an Edgar Rice Burroughs book.