Dune

by Frank Herbert
Dune cover
Good Books rating 4.36
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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Paperback • £10.99 Hardback • £12.99–£25.00
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Technical
  • ID: 1909
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9788497596824
  • Publisher: DEBOLSILLO
  • Published: 2003-04-04
  • Formats: 5
  • Reviews: 4

Frank Herbert's 'Dune' is a seminal work of science fiction that explores themes of power, ecology, and religion. Set in a complex interstellar society, the story follows Paul Atreides as he becomes a messianic figure on the desert planet Arrakis, the only source of the valuable spice melange. The novel delves into the intricacies of feudal politics, the impact of environmentalism, and the consequences of fanaticism. /n/n 'Dune' is renowned for its intricate world-building and deep philosophical undertones, making it a cornerstone of the science fiction genre. Herbert's detailed universe and multifaceted characters have inspired countless adaptations and remain influential in modern sci-fi literature.

Reviews
Read Brightly · 2023-01-01
brilliant 4.50

The book is celebrated for its intricate world-building and deep political intrigue, making it a standout in science fiction. It blends adventure and mysticism, environmentalism and politics, creating a rich and immersive narrative.

Read Brightly highlights how Dune excels in world-building, creating a complex and immersive universe that captivates readers. The reviewer praises the book's blend of adventure and mysticism, environmentalism, and politics, noting that it formed the basis for a significant literary legacy. They appreciate the depth of the political intrigue and the richly drawn characters, making it a seminal piece of science fiction.

Quick quotes

    A stunning blend of adventure and mysticism, environmentalism and politics

    Dune won the first Nebula Award, shared the Hugo Award, and formed the basis of what

    It is a seminal piece of science fiction that excels in world-building, character depth, and complex political intrigue

The Literary Cat Co · 2023-01-01
excellent 4.75

The book is described as a classic masterpiece and a triumph of the imagination. It is one of the bestselling science fiction novels of all time, set on a desert planet with rich political and environmental themes.

The Literary Cat Co. describes Dune as a classic masterpiece and a triumph of the imagination. The reviewer highlights its status as one of the bestselling science fiction novels of all time, set on the desert planet Arrakis. They appreciate the book's rich political and environmental themes, making it a timeless and impactful read. The intricate world-building and complex characters are noted as standout features that contribute to its enduring appeal.

Quick quotes

    Frank Herbert's classic masterpiece—a triumph of the imagination and one of the bestselling science fiction novels of all time

    Set on the desert planet Arrakis

    It is one of the bestselling science fiction novels of all time

That's What She Read · 2022-08-16
engaging 3.70

The book has a richly detailed world, but the pacing and writing could be improved. Despite its flaws, it offers a unique and engaging reading experience.

The reviewer acknowledges the depth and complexity of the world-building in Dune, praising Herbert's ability to create a vivid and immersive universe. They note that the book's pacing and writing style could be improved, which detracts slightly from the overall enjoyment. However, they still find the story compelling and unique, making it a worthwhile read despite its shortcomings. The reviewer appreciates the intricate political and social dynamics, as well as the exploration of themes like ecology and religion, which add layers of depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    With better pacing and better writing, this would have been a more enjoyable reading experience.

    The world-building is rich and detailed, making the universe feel alive and complex.

    Herbert's exploration of themes like ecology, economics, and religion adds layers of depth to the narrative.

A Blog of Books and Musicals · 2021-10-21
captivating 4.50

Herbert's creation of the world of Dune is brilliant, with complex political and cultural elements that make the story compelling.

This reviewer was captivated by the intricate world-building in Dune, highlighting Herbert's brilliant realization of Arrakis and its cultures. They found the complex political and cultural elements to be particularly compelling, making the story rich and engaging. The reviewer appreciated the depth and complexity of the novel, finding it to be a thought-provoking and immersive read. They praised Herbert's ability to create a believable and detailed world, as well as his exploration of various themes and ideas.

Quick quotes

    Herbert clearly did an amazing job creating the world of Dune.

    Arrakis and the cultures on it are brilliantly realized.

    The complex political and cultural elements make the story compelling.

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