How to Read the Dune Books in Chronological Order

Explore the Expansive World of Frank Herbert's Dune: A Comprehensive Guide to the 23 Novels

Since Frank Herbert's groundbreaking 1965 novel, Dune, captivated readers, the intricate political landscape of his universe has continued to enthrall. While Herbert penned six novels, his son Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson have significantly expanded the canon, resulting in a staggering 23 novels spanning 15,000 years. Navigating this extensive series can be daunting, so this guide provides a chronological reading order and overview of each book.

The Scale of the Dune Universe:

While the franchise boasts 23 novels, only six were written by Frank Herbert himself. All books listed below are considered canon, fitting within the Dune timeline, though many are authored by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson.

Reading the Original Six:

Here's the order of Frank Herbert's original Dune novels:

1. Dune
2. Dune Messiah
3. Children of Dune
4. God Emperor of Dune
5. Heretics of Dune
6. Chapterhouse: Dune

Chronological Reading Order (Including Prequels and Sequels):

Note: The following descriptions may contain spoilers.

The Butlerian Jihad Trilogy:

1. The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: This prequel trilogy opener, set approximately 10,000 years before Dune, establishes the world's foundation and lore. It depicts the brutal war between humanity and the artificial intelligence they created.

2. The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: The second installment continues the war, introducing ancestors of House Atreides and House Harkonnen. Intricate plotting and world-building set the stage for the final battle against the sentient computer overlord, Ominus.

3. The Battle of Corrin by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: Set 100 years after The Butlerian Jihad, this book shows Ominus's plan nearing fruition. The most brutal phase of the war unfolds, shaping the world of the original Dune.

Schools of Dune Trilogy:

4. Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: Jumping forward 83 years, this focuses on a world without thinking machines and the rise of the Butlerian movement.

5. Mentats of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: The establishment of Mentat schools to replace thinking machines is central to this installment. The struggle for survival within these schools mirrors the universe's larger conflict.

6. Navigators of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: This concludes the trilogy, focusing on the Bene Gesserit and the growing threat of anti-technology forces.

Prelude to Dune Trilogy:

7. House Atreides by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: This prequel trilogy begins 35 years before Dune, introducing key characters like Leto Atreides, Duncan Idaho, and Baron Harkonnen.

8. House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: The power struggle between Houses Atreides and Harkonnen intensifies, setting the stage for Dune.

9. House Corrino by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: This final prequel focuses on Leto, Jessica, and their son Paul's birth, highlighting the Bene Gesserit's plans.

Companion Novels:

10. Princess of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: This companion novel explores the lives of Irulan and Chani, the two women in Paul Atreides' life.

The Caladan Trilogy:

11. The Duke of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: This trilogy centers on Leto Atreides' rise to power.

12. The Lady of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: Jessica's story and her choices are central to this installment.

13. The Heir of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: This concludes the trilogy, focusing on Paul Atreides' journey to leadership.

Frank Herbert's Original Novels:

14. Frank Herbert's Dune: The seminal novel that started it all.

15. Paul of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: A prequel and sequel to Dune, exploring Paul Atreides' life before and after the events of the original novel.

16. Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah: A decade after becoming Emperor, Paul Atreides faces the consequences of his actions.

17. The Winds of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: Bridges the gap between Dune Messiah and Children of Dune.

18. Frank Herbert's Children of Dune: Paul Atreides' children grapple with his legacy.

19. Frank Herbert's God Emperor of Dune: Leto II's reign and its impact on the universe are explored.

20. Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune: Humanity's resurgence and the Bene Gesserit's choices are central to this installment.

21. Frank Herbert's Chapterhouse: Dune: The Bene Gesserit face a war for survival against the Honored Matres.

Sequels Based on Frank Herbert's Notes:

22. Hunters of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: Continues the story from Chapterhouse: Dune.

23. Sandworms of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: The climactic conclusion to the series.

The Future of Dune:

While more Dune books are possible, the success of the film adaptations and the ongoing HBO series, Dune: Prophecy, ensures the continued exploration of this rich universe. A new video game, Dune: Awakening, is also in development.

This comprehensive guide provides a roadmap for navigating the vast Dune universe. Enjoy the journey!