Frank Herbert's Dune has long been regarded as a masterpiece of science fiction literature, but it has gained popularity in recent years across various other media. The story centers on Paul Atreides, a young man who reluctantly accepts guardianship of the desert planet Arrakis. While the planet is largely inhospitable, it possesses a valuable substance known as "spice," which many noble houses covet in the universe.
The worldbuilding, in particular, with its vast, interstellar empire comprising diverse political and social structures, lent itself well to the creation of the Academy Award-nominated movies directed by Denis Villeneuve. The films, although perhaps the most well-known adaptation, are only one of many ways the source material has been converted. Whether you're a long-time fan of the series, looking to dive into the classic in a new way, or a newcomer hoping to dip your toes before reading more than 2,500 pages, here are seven ways you can consume Dune!
Original Series
Of course, all of these adaptations wouldn't have been possible without the original text. The first book in the Dune chronicles took the sci-fi world by storm upon its release on August 1, 1965, claiming both the Hugo and Nebula Awards that year. It has since only surged in popularity, with many creatives becoming inspired by the dense world Herbet managed to create, grappling with many themes like environmentalism, empire, heroism, religion, gender dynamics, and more.
It is said that Frank Herbert got inspiration for the novel from his travels to the Oregon Dunes in Florence, Oregon. At the time, the United States Department of Agriculture was attempting to use several grasses to secure the dunes, which, in a letter to his agent, Herbet claimed could, "swallow whole cities." And from there, he would spend the next five years researching and writing, building the beloved series that the sci-fi community and beyond have come to cherish.
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Graphic Novels
New York Times-bestselling authors Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson join forces with the talented illustrators Raúl Allén and Patricia Martín to deliver the groundbreaking series in a new and invigorating way to an upcoming generation of Dune readers. These graphic novels offer an immersive experience, transporting readers to the Dune universe through impressive visual storytelling and classic comic elements.
While retaining the depth of the original novels, the graphic novel adaptation seeks to amplify the adventure. From riding sandworms to fighting in intergalactic battles, this medium is a great way to be involved in the spectacle like never before!
DUNE: The Graphic Novel, Book 1: Dune
Set in a far removed interstellar society, Book 1 follows Paul Atreides and his family as they accept and grapple for control of the desert planet Arrakis.
DUNE: The Graphic Novel, Book 2: Muad’Dib
The second book of three volumes, Book 2: Muad’Dib, begins with Paul Atrides and his mother, Lady Jessica, navigating their new home of Arrakis. Betrayed and on the run from their biggest enemy, the two must find and seek refuge with the Fremen (the native people of Arrakis) or risk death.
Films
For those of you in the newer generations, the recently adapted films were likely your introduction to the world of Dune. Not only did Villeneuve's film adaptations, Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two, win major awards at the Oscars, but they also grossed over $1 billion worldwide. Among the star-studded cast is Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides and Zendaya Coleman as Chani, Paul's lover.
Part Three, which is scheduled to be released in December of 2026, will see Anya Taylor-Joy as Alia Atreides, Paul Atreides's younger sister, with more cast announcements to come.
Audiobook
Narrated by Scott Brick and a handful of others, the audiobook manages to bring the classic to life. The production of the listening experience is sweeping, using multiple voice actors, with limited effect, honing in on the rich storytelling. For those of you who don't have the time to read the book, or simply prefer an aural experience, this medium is for you!
Coffee Table Book
Dune: Exposures makes not only a beautiful addition to any home, but a fascinating collector's item for any Dune fanatics. During the filming of Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two, photographer Greig Fraser documented the shooting process, creating a gallery of immersive, vivid photography.
Accompanied by Josh Brolin's poignant writing, who plays Warmaster Gurney Halleck in the two films, the book is a unique insight into the on-set experience and a behind-the-scenes look into making the adaptations of the beloved classic.
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Dune: Exposures
Board Game
Have you ever wondered what choices you would make on Arakkis? Well, look no further with the Dune: Imperium board games from Dire Wolf Digital. Blending deck building and worker placement, the board game is based on strategy, with the fate of the empire hanging in the balance of the players' decisions.
Video Game
Dune: Awakening from Funcom is a multiplayer survival game set in the dense and dangerous world of Arakkis. From taking down sandworms to building your own fortress, the objective is to rise in the ranks of the desert planets in a world shared with hundreds of other players. You can also gain the teachings of the Bene Gesserit, or even consume spice, to assume powers beyond the limits of humanity!
Featured image: Warner Bros. Pictures
