Quote Originally Posted by farplaner
I am currently re-reading the first book of the Dune series. (Enjoy Vivi22). Beware, though, that after Children of Dune Herbert takes the series in a pretty different direction. I think the whole series is genius, but just so you know. I agree with you Vivi, the sci-fi channel miniseries is pretty excellent- undoubtedly their best production.

Dune is sci/fi, but it's not typical. It explores so many issues: politics (the reader sees the world through the eyes of those in power- Dukes, emperors, etc.), religion, perception of time and the universe, war, destiny and free will, it's really endless.

One of my favorite things about the series is the idea of HUMAN POTENTIAL. Certain people in the story can compute data on the level with supercomputers, others have mastered the human body and physical properties of existence to an extent that they can control every bodily function and manipulate space/time. I can't really explain it as well as it should be, but I would definitely suggest trying it out, even if you're not really into sci-fi.
Just finished the first on the weekend and I must say I agree with everything you said. Though it may be a science fiction novel, it's not about the science at all. I have to say that Paul is probably one of my favorite literary characters at the moment, simply because he's so unlike most characters. I found his own views on his power, and his place among the fremen very interesting.

I'm actually really looking forward to getting past Children of Dune, especially since you say he goes in a different direction. I've seen both of the mini series many times, so even though they're not exact translations, I have a good enough idea what's going on that I look forward to being able to read some of the books without knowing what will happen next.