This Week I am Reading ... Mr Tal Bright

Mr Tal Bright is our Estate and IT Manager at Elmfield. Tal shares his review of Dune by Frank Herbert below

Having seen a trailer for the 2021 film adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune, and finding out that it was based on the first book in a series, it was obvious to me that this was a story that I needed to read.

Finding out that the film was widely regarded as “unfilmable” by fans only piqued my interest further, and reading that Arthur C. Clarke knew nothing comparable to it except The Lord of the Rings sealed the deal. 

I had a feeling that this would be a book that I would read multiple times, so I opted for the hardcover trilogy version, and when it arrived, I wasn’t disappointed. The simplistic black and gold artwork, combined with the satisfying shuffle of pages as I thumbed through it, and the soft thud when it’s closed, were all experiences that were very satisfying. 

To give a brief synopsis, Dune is set within a feudal interstellar society, ruled over by Padishah Emperor Shaddam IV, who assigns planetary fiefs to noble houses. The story follows a young Paul Atreides as his father, Duke Leto, is given stewardship of the harsh and inhospitable desert planet of Arrakis. This planet is special, as it is the only source of the ultra-valuable and highly coveted Melange, a drug that extends life and enhances mental ability.

Because of the scarcity and value of Melange, stewardship of Arrakis is both a coveted appointment, and a highly dangerous undertaking, both politically, and physically.

The events of Dune are steeped in betrayal and death, revenge and greed, and these are certainly the most common themes throughout, with the religions, politics, and motives of each different faction explored in great detail throughout the narrative. This certainly isn’t meant to be a light read, however the author expertly maintains balance by also exploring themes such as loyalty, forgiveness, generosity, and the sanctity and value of life.

Considering that Dune was written in 1965, it has stood the test of time incredibly well, and doesn’t feel outdated in the slightest. It’s a very complete story, and is a descriptive marvel. Every character feels like they have a backstory, whether that is given to you or not, and every location feels alive. Even the desolation of the deserts are described so fully that you almost feel like you are standing in that barren landscape. Every situation has you on the edge of your seat, just waiting to see how it plays out, and I barely put the book down from start to finish.

If you are a fan of science fiction, I can highly recommend this book, and even if you aren’t, I still think you will find enjoyment within it’s pages. I am looking forward to finding the time to sit down with Dune Messiah, the next book in the series.

Oh, and there are giant sand worms…