Dune (Dune #1) by Frank Herbert

 

Summary (from the publisher): The Duke of Atreides has been maneuvered by his arch-enemy, Baron Harkonnen, into administering the desert planet of Dune. Although it is almost completely without water, Dune is a planet of fabulous wealth, for it is the only source of a drug prized throughout the Galactic Empire. The Duke and his son, Paul, are expecting treachery, and it duly comes - but from a shockingly unexpected place.

Then Paul succeeds his father, and he becomes a catalyst for the native people of Dune, whose knowledge of the ecology of the planet gives them vast power. They have been waiting for a leader like Paul Atreides, a leader who can harness that force...

DUNE: one of the most brilliant science fiction novels ever written, as engrossing and heart-rending today as it was when it was first published half a century ago.

Review: In this epic science fiction novel, the Duke of Atreides arrvies on the desert planet of Dune with his lady and his son Paul. While the planet is almost totally devoid of water, it is prized for the spice that is harvested and used as a drug. But the Duke has been tricked by his enemy, Baron Harkonnen. Quickly, his son finds himself living among the native people of Dune, who have been waiting for centuries for a leader that was foretold. 

This is actually my second time reading this book. I first read it back in 2008. I decided to read it again along with my husband and before re-watching the new movies based off of this book. I really enjoyed it the first time around as a college student and the same still holds true listening to the audio version. The audio version uses a full cast and sound effects and was well done. 

I deeply appreciate the immense world building and scale of this novel. Herbert was on the scene with creating alternate imagined worlds before many others and his novels have stood the test of time. The dry world, where every drop of moisture is prized, and people must avoid immense and dangerous worms was compelling, as is the struggle for power. I was also particularly drawn to the training and skills possessed by Paul's mother. At times, the text felt a bit wordy and ponderous. Much time was spent on scheming and behind the scenes machinations and less on action. But overall, a truly epic story. 

Stars: 4