Os X on a Powerbook G4?

Hi, I have a friend who gave me a metalic Powerbook G4. I understand that it should run OS X. I have a copy of Tiger but when I try to load it I get a panic script screen and then it stops. I have an upgrade copy of Tiger but when I try to load that it states that I can't because there is no version of Tiger on the hard drive to upgrade...am I going to have to start with OS Nine and if so can you even buy OS 9 anymore? Thought I would use this old laptop to check mail etc when I take motorcycle trips and leave my macbook pro at home. Any help is appreciated. Thanks

Is it a specific model install disk or a retail copy?

Came with a Macbook...would that be the issue?

Yup. It'll be for that model. You're going to need a full, normal retail version.

Ok....so what version would you suggest to run on this and can older versions still be purchased? I have no experience pre my Macbook Pro...

Thanks for the help