Dune Reading Order Guide
By Frank Herbert · 6 books
How to read the Dune series by Frank Herbert and Brian Herbert. Covers the original 6 novels and the expanded universe prequels and sequels.
About Dune
Dune by Frank Herbert is the best-selling science fiction novel of all time and the foundation of one of sci-fi's richest universes. Set thousands of years in the future, it follows the Atreides family on the desert planet Arrakis — the only source of the most valuable substance in the universe. Frank Herbert wrote 6 Dune novels before his death in 1986. His son Brian Herbert, together with Kevin J. Anderson, has since written over 20 additional novels expanding the universe.
Essential reading order (Frank Herbert's original 6)
Start with Frank Herbert's original novels. These are the core of Dune and the only books written by the series creator. Many fans consider this the complete Dune experience.
| # | Title | Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dune One of the greatest sci-fi novels ever written. Start here. | 1965 |
| 2 | Dune Messiah Shorter, darker sequel. Subverts expectations from book 1. | 1969 |
| 3 | Children of Dune | 1976 |
| 4 | God Emperor of Dune A 3,500-year time jump. Philosophical and divisive. | 1981 |
| 5 | Heretics of Dune | 1984 |
| 6 | Chapterhouse: Dune Frank Herbert's final novel. Ends on a cliffhanger. | 1985 |
Do I need to read the Brian Herbert books?
No. The expanded universe novels by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson are optional. They include prequels (House Atreides, House Harkonnen, House Corrino), interquels, and two sequel novels (Hunters of Dune, Sandworms of Dune) that attempt to resolve Frank Herbert's cliffhanger. Fan reception is mixed — the writing style is noticeably different from Frank Herbert's dense, philosophical prose. If you enjoy the universe and want more, they provide additional context. If you only read 6 books in your life from this universe, make them Frank Herbert's.
Where to stop if you're unsure
Dune works perfectly as a standalone novel. If you love it and want more, continue with Dune Messiah and Children of Dune — these three form a natural trilogy about Paul Atreides and his family. God Emperor of Dune is a significant tonal shift that not everyone enjoys but rewards those who stick with it. Read one book at a time and decide as you go.