When and Who? Edgar Rice Burroughs, first of the Barsoom series, published in 1917.

What happens? John Carter, a Confederate American Civil War veteran, goes prospecting in Arizona and, when set upon by Indians, is mysteriously transported to Mars, called 'Barsoom' by its inhabitants.

WhatÂ’s Mars Like? There is barbarism; living on an aging planet, with dwindling resources, the inhabitants of Barsoom have become hardened and warlike, fighting one another to survive.

Why should I read it? This book and its series are early inspiration by many popular science fiction novels. Burroughs' work also helped inspire others support for the US Space Program. These include pioneers of space exploration research and the search for life on other planets.

Another fact? BurroughsÂ’ became very famous for his series of Tarzan books following this release.