How to Read the Dune Books in Chronological Order

Frank Herbert's Dune, published in 1965, ignited a passion for its intricate political landscape and sprawling narrative. While Herbert penned six novels, his son Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson have expanded the canon significantly, resulting in an astounding 23 novels spanning 15,000 years. Navigating this expansive series can be daunting, so let's explore the Dune book timeline and reading order.

With Dune: Messiah adaptations on the horizon, now's the ideal time to delve into the original novels. The timeline below details the entire Dune book series, offering a comprehensive reading guide.

How Many Dune Books Are There?

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

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How to Read the Original Series in Order

Dune
Dune Messiah
Children of Dune
God Emperor of Dune
Heretics of Dune
Chapterhouse: Dune

All Dune Books: Chronological Reading Order

Warning: The following blurbs may contain spoilers for the Dune series.

The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This prequel trilogy, written decades after the original Dune, expands upon the world-building and lore. Chronologically, it precedes Herbert's original novel by approximately 10,000 years. It depicts the devastating war between humanity and the artificial intelligence they created, setting the stage for the technologically-sparse world of the later books.

The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The second book introduces key figures in the Dune universe. The war continues, focusing on ancestors of House Atreides and House Harkonnen as they battle the sentient computer overlord, Ominus. Intricate plotting and world-building build upon the first book, culminating in a pivotal battle.

The Battle of Corrin by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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Set 100 years after The Butlerian Jihad, Ominus's plan for domination nears fruition. A brutal war ensues, pushing the universe to its limits. This book establishes the Fremen's battle-readiness, crucial to the events of the original Dune.

Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This installment of the "Schools of Dune" trilogy jumps forward 83 years. It explores a world without thinking machines and its consequences. Following various characters, the book reveals crucial details about the Butlerian movement and the escalating violence across the galaxy.

Mentats of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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With thinking machines destroyed, schools are established to train Mentats—exceptionally intelligent humans. Other academies, including a new Sisterhood school, also emerge. However, a vengeful individual threatens to unravel everything.

Navigators of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This final book in the trilogy focuses on the growing threat of anti-technology forces fueled by the Butlerian Jihad. The central question is whether reason can prevail against the rising fanaticism.

House Atreides by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The first book in the "Prelude to Dune" trilogy takes place 35 years before the original Dune. It introduces key players like Leto Atreides, Duncan Idaho, Baron Harkonnen, and Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam. Political intrigue sets the stage for a pivotal conflict.

House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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Continuing the Prelude trilogy, this novel details the power struggle between Houses Harkonnen and Atreides. The Bene Gesserit's plan to create the Kwisatz Haderach unfolds.

House Corrino by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The final book of the Prelude trilogy centers on Leto, Jessica, and their unborn son, Paul. The Bene Gesserit eagerly await the arrival of their chosen one, unaware of the consequences.

Princess of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This companion novel focuses on the lives of Irulan and Chani, the two significant women in Paul Atreides' life, exploring their paths that led them to him.

The Duke of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This trilogy centers on Leto Atreides' rise to power, highlighting his integrity and the dangerous path it leads him down.

The Lady of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This book explores Lady Jessica's betrayal of the Bene Gesserit and the consequences of her choices.

The Heir of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This final trilogy installment focuses on Paul Atreides' journey to self-discovery and leadership before he becomes Muad'Dib.

Frank Herbert's Dune

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Herbert's seminal work introduces House Atreides and their son Paul as they navigate the perilous politics of the Spice trade on Arrakis.

Paul of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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Serving as both prequel and sequel, this book follows Paul Atreides before and after the events of the original Dune.

Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

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A decade after becoming Emperor, Paul Atreides grapples with the unintended consequences of his actions.

The Winds of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This book bridges the gap between Dune Messiah and Children of Dune, focusing on Jessica, Alia, and Duncan Idaho.

Frank Herbert's Children of Dune

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Paul Atreides' children, Leto and Ghanima, confront their father's legacy.

Frank Herbert's God Emperor of Dune

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Thousands of years later, Leto II's rule and its impact on the universe are explored.

Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

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Humanity flourishes once more, and the Bene Gesserit face a critical choice.

Frank Herbert's Chapterhouse: Dune

The Bene Gesserit engage in a war for survival against the Honored Matres. This cliffhanger ending concludes Herbert's work.

Hunters of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This duology continues the story from Herbert's final book.

Sandworms of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This climactic book brings together loose threads from the series.

Will There Be More Dune?

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While further Dune books are possible, the success of the film adaptations ensures the franchise's continued presence on screen and in other media.