It’s amusing to think that Dune was rejected by over 20 publishers and initially received critical backlash. However, through word of mouth, it eventually became one of the most beloved science fiction novels of all time. Although the recent (2021) movie adaptation is quite good in my opinion, it still pales in comparison to the depth and richness of the original books, which amount to five in total (excluding those written by Herbert’s son).

Dune is one of those books that kept me engrossed from start to finish, and I know I’ll return to it for a second reading. The world, or rather worlds, of Dune feel remarkably vivid and substantial, almost as if they were real. The level of detail is truly astonishing; this world is so intricately developed and populated with characters who feel like genuine individuals. The exploration of the history and cultures of the various groups is so profound that you can’t help but be drawn into the story. It is, without a doubt, a masterpiece and my favorite science fiction book to date. In fact, I would even rank it as my second favorite book series after The Lord of the Rings.

Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, fantasy, or even if you’re not particularly inclined towards those genres, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up a copy of Dune and giving it a read. You won’t regret it.