Edgar Rice Burroughs Books In Order

Imagine being transported to the lush jungles of Africa, where you swing through trees alongside a man raised by apes. Or perhaps you'd prefer a journey to Mars, a dying planet filled with ancient civilizations and daring sword fights. This is the magic of Edgar Rice Burroughs, a master storyteller whose imaginative tales have captivated readers for over a century. His works are more than just adventure stories; they are gateways to worlds filled with wonder, danger, and unforgettable characters.

Edgar Rice Burroughs wasn't just an author; he was an architect of worlds. Before his writing career took off, Burroughs held a variety of jobs, from selling pencil sharpeners to working as a cavalryman. It was during this time, while searching for his true calling, that he began to write. Frustrated with the formulaic and often predictable fiction of the era, Burroughs decided he could write better stories himself. His gamble paid off, launching a career that would leave an indelible mark on the science fiction and fantasy genres. Understanding the chronological order of his books allows us to appreciate the evolution of his craft and the interconnectedness of his fictional universes.

The Worlds of Edgar Rice Burroughs: A Chronological Journey

Edgar Rice Burroughs’s literary legacy is vast and varied, spanning numerous genres, including science fiction, fantasy, adventure, and even Westerns. Best known for his Tarzan and John Carter of Mars series, Burroughs created worlds that were both exotic and deeply imaginative. His stories, filled with heroic protagonists, daring adventures, and captivating creatures, have influenced countless writers and filmmakers. Exploring his works in chronological order provides insight into the development of his writing style, the recurring themes he explored, and the expanding scope of his fictional universes.

Burroughs's first published novel, Tarzan of the Apes, appeared in 1912, introducing the world to John Clayton, the orphaned son of a British lord, raised by apes in the African jungle. This novel, a blend of adventure, romance, and social commentary, was an instant success, establishing Burroughs as a major force in popular fiction. Following the success of Tarzan, Burroughs began to explore other genres, including science fiction. In 1912, he also began writing Under the Moons of Mars (later retitled A Princess of Mars), which was serialized in All-Story magazine and published in book form in 1917. This novel introduced John Carter, a Confederate veteran who finds himself transported to Mars (Barsoom), a dying planet populated by warring races and bizarre creatures.

Burroughs's success lay in his ability to create immersive worlds and compelling characters. He meticulously crafted the landscapes, cultures, and languages of his fictional settings, making them feel real and believable. His protagonists were often flawed but courageous individuals who faced extraordinary challenges with resilience and determination. Moreover, Burroughs was a master of pacing, keeping his stories moving forward with constant action, suspense, and cliffhangers. His writing style, characterized by its directness and clarity, made his stories accessible to a wide audience.

The chronological order of Burroughs's books is not merely a matter of historical record; it is also a guide to understanding the evolution of his literary vision. As he continued to write, Burroughs expanded the scope of his fictional universes, introducing new characters, settings, and themes. He also revisited familiar worlds, exploring them in greater depth and complexity. By following the chronological order of his works, readers can trace the development of Burroughs's ideas and appreciate the interconnectedness of his various series. For example, some characters and technologies from the John Carter series reappear in his later Venus novels.

Throughout his career, Burroughs wrote prolifically, publishing dozens of novels and short stories. He continued to explore new genres and experiment with different narrative techniques. He also remained responsive to the changing tastes of his audience, incorporating elements of science fiction, fantasy, and Westerns into his stories. Despite his commercial success, Burroughs never lost his sense of adventure and his willingness to take risks. He remained committed to telling stories that were both entertaining and thought-provoking, and his works continue to resonate with readers today.

Navigating the Burroughs Universe: A Book-by-Book Guide

Understanding the order of Edgar Rice Burroughs's books is crucial for truly appreciating his work. This is because it lets you see how his writing developed, how his different series connect, and how his storytelling skills improved over time. The following list presents his major works in publication order, allowing you to embark on your own chronological journey through his worlds.

1912: Tarzan of the Apes: The book that started it all, introducing the world to Tarzan, the ape-man.
1913: The Return of Tarzan: Tarzan leaves Africa for civilization, but his heart calls him back.
1914: The Beasts of Tarzan: Kidnapped and left for dead, Tarzan uses his jungle knowledge to seek revenge.
1915: The Son of Tarzan: Introduces Korak, Tarzan’s son, who carves his own path in the African wilderness.
1916: A Princess of Mars: John Carter finds himself on Mars, embroiled in a war between alien races.
1917: The Gods of Mars: Carter continues his Martian adventures, discovering new civilizations and dangers.
1918: The Warlord of Mars: Carter becomes a powerful leader on Mars, battling for the planet's future.
1918: Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar: Tarzan searches for the lost city of Opar and its hidden treasures.
1919: Jungle Tales of Tarzan: A collection of short stories detailing Tarzan's early life among the apes.
1920: Tarzan the Untamed: Set during World War I, Tarzan seeks revenge on the Germans who ravaged his home.
1921: Tarzan the Terrible: Tarzan ventures into a lost land inhabited by dinosaurs and savage tribes.
1922: Tarzan and the Golden Lion: Introduces Jad-bal-ja, a golden lion who becomes Tarzan's loyal companion.
1923: Pellucidar: David Innes discovers a world at the Earth's core, filled with prehistoric creatures and primitive humans.
1923: Tarzan and the Ant Men: Tarzan encounters a race of miniature humans.
1924: The Land That Time Forgot: Bowen Tyler and his companions find themselves in Caprona, an island where evolution follows a different path.
1924: Tarzan and the Empire of Gold: Tarzan encounters a lost Roman Empire in Africa.
1925: The Cave Girl: A man discovers a prehistoric woman in the California wilderness.
1926: The Eternal Lover: Two souls are linked across time through reincarnation and romance.
1927: The Mad King: A political thriller set in a fictional European kingdom.
1927: Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle: Tarzan protects his jungle home from invaders.
1928: Tanar of Pellucidar: A continuation of the Pellucidar series, focusing on Tanar's adventures.
1928: Tarzan and the Lost Empire: Tarzan discovers another lost civilization in Africa.
1929: The Land of Terror: Another entry in the Pellucidar series, filled with danger and adventure.
1929: Tarzan at the Earth's Core: Tarzan travels to Pellucidar, the world inside the Earth.
1930: The Mucker: Billy Byrne, a tough street fighter, finds himself in a series of adventures.
1930: Pirate Blood: A historical adventure novel filled with pirates and buried treasure.
1931: Tarzan the Invincible: Foreign invaders threaten Tarzan's jungle.
1931: Jungle Girl: An aviator encounters a white goddess in the Cambodian jungle.
1932: Tarzan Triumphant: Tarzan battles a powerful and corrupt enemy.
1932: Apache Devil: A Western novel about a white man raised by Apaches.
1933: The Gods of Mars: John Carter's second adventure on Barsoom.
1933: Tarzan and the City of Gold: Tarzan discovers a hidden city of gold.
1934: Lost on Venus: Carson Napier travels to Venus and encounters strange civilizations.
1934: Tarzan and the Lion Man: A mad scientist creates a human-lion hybrid.
1935: Pirates of Venus: Carson Napier's adventures continue on Venus.
1935: Tarzan and the Leopard Men: Tarzan battles a cult of leopard worshippers.
1936: Carson of Venus: The third book in the Venus series.
1937: Tarzan's Quest: Tarzan searches for a lost tribe with rejuvenating secrets.
1937: Back to the Stone Age: A man travels to Pellucidar and discovers a lost civilization.
1938: The Girl from Hollywood: A Hollywood satire about the film industry.
1939: Tarzan and the Forbidden City: Tarzan protects a hidden city from outsiders.
1940: Synthetic Men of Mars: The eighth book in the Barsoom series.
1941: Tarzan the Magnificent: Tarzan becomes embroiled in a conflict between warring tribes.
1941: Llana of Gathol: The ninth book in the Barsoom series.
1942: Tarzan and the Madman: Tarzan encounters a madman with a dangerous agenda.
1943: Carson of Venus: The fourth book in the Venus series.
1944: The Wizard of Venus: The fifth book in the Venus series.
1945: Tarzan and the Foreign Legion: Tarzan joins the fight in World War II.
1946: Escape on Venus: The sixth book in the Venus series.
1947: Tarzan and the Leopard Woman: Tarzan battles a dangerous female villain.
1948: Tarzan's Jungle Quest: Tarzan investigates a series of mysterious events.
1949: Tarzan and the Golden Lion: A re-edited version of the 1923 novel.
1950: Tarzan and the Ant Men: A re-edited version of the 1924 novel.
1951: Tarzan and the Lost Safari: Tarzan helps a group of explorers lost in the jungle.
1952: Savage Pellucidar: The sixth book in the Pellucidar series.
1964: Tarzan and the Castaways: A collection of four short stories.

Trends and Latest Developments in Burroughs Studies

Interest in Edgar Rice Burroughs's works has seen a resurgence in recent years, fueled by film adaptations, academic studies, and a renewed appreciation for his imaginative storytelling. While his works were incredibly popular during his lifetime, recent years have seen an increase in scholarly work analyzing his work, often from a post-colonial perspective. Some celebrate his ability to create imaginative worlds, while others critique the racial and social biases present in his stories.

Contemporary adaptations of Burroughs's works continue to evolve, reflecting changing cultural values and technological advancements. Recent film versions of Tarzan and John Carter have attempted to update the characters and stories for modern audiences, often incorporating more diverse casts and addressing some of the criticisms leveled against the original works. However, these adaptations have also faced challenges in capturing the unique spirit and charm of Burroughs's writing.

The digital age has made Burroughs's works more accessible than ever before. E-books and online archives have made his stories available to a global audience, while fan communities and online forums provide platforms for readers to discuss and share their appreciation for his writing. The rise of audiobooks has also introduced a new generation of listeners to Burroughs's timeless tales. The Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc. continues to oversee and promote his legacy, ensuring that his works remain in print and available to readers around the world.

Moreover, there is a growing trend toward examining the influence of Burroughs on other writers and artists. His themes and motifs have been reinterpreted and reimagined in countless works of science fiction, fantasy, and adventure. From comic books and graphic novels to video games and role-playing games, Burroughs's influence can be seen in a wide range of media. This recognition of Burroughs's legacy is helping to solidify his place as one of the most important and influential writers of the 20th century.

Recent scholarship has also focused on the historical context of Burroughs's writing, exploring the social, political, and cultural forces that shaped his work. Scholars have examined his views on race, gender, and imperialism, as well as his attitudes toward technology and progress. By understanding the historical context of Burroughs's writing, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and contradictions of his work. This critical engagement with Burroughs's legacy is essential for ensuring that his stories continue to resonate with readers in the 21st century.

Tips and Expert Advice for Reading Burroughs

Embarking on a journey through the works of Edgar Rice Burroughs can be a rewarding experience, but it helps to have some guidance. Here are some tips and expert advice to enhance your reading experience:

Start with the Classics: Begin with Tarzan of the Apes and A Princess of Mars. These are Burroughs's most famous works and provide a good introduction to his writing style and recurring themes. These books are foundational to his entire body of work and will provide the necessary context for understanding his other series.
Read in Chronological Order: While not strictly necessary, reading the books in order of publication can enhance your appreciation of Burroughs's development as a writer. This allows you to see how his ideas evolved and how his different series connect. Pay attention to the publication dates listed earlier in this article to maintain the correct sequence.
Be Aware of the Time Period: Burroughs wrote during a different era, and his works reflect the social and cultural attitudes of that time. Be prepared to encounter some outdated and potentially offensive language and stereotypes. Viewing these elements within their historical context can help you better understand the stories.
Embrace the Adventure: Burroughs's stories are filled with action, suspense, and imaginative world-building. Let yourself get swept away by the adventure and don't get bogged down by overanalyzing every detail. Enjoy the thrill of the chase, the clash of swords, and the exploration of new worlds.
Explore Beyond Tarzan and Mars: While these series are his most famous, Burroughs wrote in various genres. Don't be afraid to explore his Westerns, historical adventures, and other science fiction novels. You might discover some hidden gems. Pellucidar, The Land That Time Forgot, and The Mucker are excellent starting points for venturing beyond his most well-known works.
Seek Out Additional Resources: There are many websites, forums, and scholarly articles dedicated to Edgar Rice Burroughs. These resources can provide additional insights into his life, his works, and his influence on popular culture.
Join a Community: Connect with other Burroughs fans online or in person. Sharing your thoughts and experiences with fellow readers can enhance your enjoyment of his books and introduce you to new perspectives. Online forums dedicated to Edgar Rice Burroughs offer a place to discuss favorite characters, plot points, and theories.
Consider Different Editions: Some editions of Burroughs's books may contain introductions, annotations, or illustrations that can enrich your reading experience. Look for editions published by reputable publishers with scholarly introductions or insightful commentary.
Don't Be Afraid to Skip Around: While chronological order is helpful, feel free to jump between series or books that pique your interest. There's no right or wrong way to enjoy Burroughs's work.
Remember It's Pulp Fiction: Burroughs was writing for entertainment, not literary acclaim. Don't expect highbrow prose or deep philosophical insights. Just relax and enjoy the ride. His stories are meant to be fun and engaging, so approach them with a sense of adventure and a willingness to suspend disbelief.

FAQ: Unraveling Common Questions About Burroughs

Q: Where should I start with Edgar Rice Burroughs?
- A: Tarzan of the Apes or A Princess of Mars are excellent starting points, introducing his iconic characters and imaginative worlds.
Q: Are the Tarzan and John Carter series connected?
- A: While they exist in separate universes, some fans have theorized connections due to recurring themes and similar writing styles.
Q: Are Burroughs's books suitable for children?
- A: While the adventure elements appeal to younger readers, be aware of potentially outdated cultural depictions and violence. Parental guidance is advised.
Q: Are there complete collections of Burroughs's works?
- A: Several publishers offer comprehensive collections, but availability may vary. Digital archives often provide access to his entire body of work.
Q: What is Burroughs's writing style like?
- A: His style is characterized by fast-paced action, vivid descriptions, and straightforward prose, making his stories accessible and engaging.
Q: Did Burroughs write anything besides science fiction and adventure?
- A: Yes, he also wrote Westerns, historical romances, and even a few contemporary novels, showcasing his versatility as a writer.
Q: Are there any movie or TV adaptations of his lesser-known works?
- A: While Tarzan and John Carter are the most frequently adapted, some of his other works have been adapted into films and TV shows, though often with less fanfare.
Q: How historically accurate are Burroughs's books?
- A: Burroughs often blended historical elements with his own imaginative creations, so accuracy varies. His stories should be enjoyed as works of fiction rather than historical accounts.
Q: Why are Burroughs's books still popular today?
- A: His stories offer timeless themes of adventure, heroism, and escapism, appealing to readers of all ages and backgrounds.
Q: Where can I find more information about Edgar Rice Burroughs?
- A: The Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc. website and various fan sites offer extensive resources and information about his life and works.

Conclusion

The books of Edgar Rice Burroughs, read in order, reveal a remarkable journey through the imagination of one of the 20th century's most influential writers. From the jungles of Africa to the plains of Mars and the hidden world of Pellucidar, Burroughs crafted worlds that continue to captivate and inspire. While his works reflect the attitudes of his time, their enduring appeal lies in their thrilling adventures, unforgettable characters, and boundless creativity.

Now that you're equipped with this comprehensive guide, why not embark on your own Edgar Rice Burroughs reading adventure? Start with Tarzan of the Apes or A Princess of Mars, and let yourself be transported to worlds beyond your wildest dreams. Share your thoughts and discoveries with fellow readers in the comments below – what are your favorite Burroughs books, and what makes them so special? Happy reading!