Edgar Rice Burroughs 
Lad and the Lion 

"The Lad and the Lion" is the first story by Burroughs that was adapted into a movie. It follows the assassination of a king, the quick escape of the heir Michael, and the subsequent fates of both the prince and his rightful country. Through a series of wild and dangerous escapades, Michael finds himself on the shores of Africa, and becomes friends with a big lion. But his enemies are right behind him. The chapters alternate from what is happening with Michael in Africa and the situation in his home country. Tarzan-like and fast-paced, the novel is definitely a must for fans of adventure fiction in general.-