Frank Herbert is the author of the best-selling science fiction novel of all time, Dune. After originally being rejected by nearly 20 publishers, Dune ended up selling a record of 12 million copies in 14 languages. In his lifetime, Frank Herbert wrote nearly 30 books and short stories, including the first six novels from the Dune franchise: Dune, Dune Messiah, Children of Dune, God Emperor of Dune, Heretics of Dune, and Chapterhouse: Dune. Herbert was best known for creating "socially engaged science fiction" and for building fantastical worlds in intricate detail. The underlying themes in Herbert’s novels correlated with his personal interests, including the future of humanity, politics, evolution, language and linguistics, sociobiology, leadership and power, and mental sanity. The Dune books in particular focus on the themes of prophesy and false saviors, ecology, colonization, human evolution and survival of the human race, and the effects and consequences of genetic manipulation. Dune’s influence and popularity has spawned movie adaptations and miniseries. Besides being a New York Times best-selling author, Frank Herbert was also inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame and has a trail named after him in his hometown, the City of Tacoma. Since his passing, Herbert’s son, Brian Herbert in collaboration with author Kevin J. Anderson, has written 4 posthumous novels and a prequel trilogy in the Dune franchise using notes left behind by his father.
Is Dune based on Islam?
Though influences from other religions can also be seen, Dune author Frank Herbert did explore the central themes of Islam as one of the overarching motifs throughout the Dune series.
How many Dune books did author Frank Herbert write?
Dune author Frank Herbert wrote the original Dune novel and five sequels, making his contribution to the Dune series 6 books in total. The remaining Dune books were written by his son, Brian Herbert, and author Kevin J. Anderson.
When did Frank Herbert stop writing Dune?
Frank Herbert stopped writing Dune upon his death in February of 1986.
Is Game of Thrones inspired by Dune?
George RR Martin has not formally cited Dune as an influence for his A Song of Ice and Fire series, though some clear similarities can be seen such as the focus on feudal societies, opposing parties competing for power, a volatile political atmosphere and certain character arcs.
Read the original Dune series by Frank Herbert in order:
Dune Dune Messiah Children of Dune God Emperor of Dune Heretics of Dune Chapterhouse: Dune
