Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Epic, mildly violent sci-fi classic explores hero worship.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In DUNE, House Atreides is tasked with ruling the resource-rich but inhospitable planet of Arrakis. The coveted resource Melange, known as "spice," is consciousness-expanding and valued by the entire galaxy. Though the Atredies suspect treachery, they are unable to avoid the attack that sends Paul, the heir to the house, and his mother Jessica, fleeing into the savage wastelands of the desert. Paul and Jessica fall in with the Fremen, who live deep in the desert and are waiting for the mythical figure of Muad'Dib, prophecised to bring salvation to their people. But will Paul prove to be the messiah, or is it only a ploy of the religious sect known as the Bene Gesserit?
Is It Any Good?
This epic is a classic that helped define the scifi genre. However, Dune does show its age at times, both stylistically and plot-wise. There's a lot to love; it's deep and complicated with layers of political intrigue, exploration of human nature and consciousness, and the dangers of hero worship and blind faith.
This book gives you a lot to think about. It's not a straightforward hero's journey like other stories in its genre. But some of the stylistic choices and stereotypes are quite dated and may be hard for modern readers to see beyond. The popularity of the newest movie series has drawn in a new audience of readers, and the story will be especially popular with those who like their speculative fiction to thoughtfully examine aspects of our modern existence.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the perseverance of many of the characters in Dune. The Fremen people work for generations to change their planet. Paul hones his fighting and mental skills through intensive practice. What other examples can you find? What have you worked really hard at? Did it pay off?
What do you think about Paul's role as Muad'Dib and how prophecy played a part in his life and future? Do you think Paul would've rallied such love based on his own actions if not for the mythology surrounding the coming of Muad'Dib?
This is a classic book from 1965. What kinds of stereotypes do you notice that wouldn't likely be included if this book were written today?
If you have read the book and seen the movies, what do you think about the differences between them? Do you think the movie was an accurate representation, and if not, what was different?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Adventures , Space
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Ace
- Publication date : June 1, 1965
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 18
- Number of pages : 704
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2026
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