Dune by Frank Herbert
Reviewed by: Susie Rivera, Reference Specialist
Genre: Science Fiction
Suggested Age: Teens, Adults
What is this Book About? In the distant future the universe revolves around one precious resource, the Spice Melange. Dune is an epic novel. Written in 1965, Dune is set against the backdrop of a feudal system of great houses that vie for control of the planet Arrakis, the only source of the Spice. Paul Atreides is the heir to one of these houses. His father, Duke Leto Atreides, has been given control over Arrakis and Dune opens with the Atreides family assuming leadership of the planet. In this time of transition, the family faces betrayal and opposition from their arch enemy, House Harkonnen, while Paul starts to realize his role in the grand scheme of the universe.
My Review: I read Dune for the first time in eighth grade and this was my third re-read as an adult while gearing up for the new film adaptation coming out next year. Dune has done for science fiction what Lord of the Rings did for the fantasy genre. Few authors have achieved the level of world-building that Herbert presents in terms of this novel’s political intrigue, ecology, religion, and culture. There are many aspects of this world that I find intriguing. I particularly enjoy the Bene Gesserit, an all-female sect focused on controlling the mind, body, and future of humanity. The Fremen, the desert dwellers who have adapted to their harsh environment, are also fascinating. Herbert does focus more on the big picture, so those who enjoy extensive character development might be disappointed. This novel was revolutionary for its time, and many modern sci-fi/fantasy novels as well as films owe much to Frank Herbert.
Three Words That Describe This Book: Epic, Thought-provoking, Complicated
Give it a Try if You Like: Issac Asimov’s Foundation Series, George R.R. Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire series, Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings
Rating: 5/5
About FDL Reads
FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.
