Review of Frank Hervert's Dune: The Graphic Novel, Book 1

 

Cover of Dune: The Graphic Novel, Book 1

After the new adjustments in my life, it was nice to set down with a book that was exciting and filled with adventure. I had been meaning to read Dune for a while but kept putting it off, however, when I came across this graphic novel in my new library, I decided to give it a go. I will say that I am pleasantly surprised. 

The Premise 

Panel from Book

This is part one of Dune. The story of a young ruler and his family who are in the midst of scandal, war, and intrigue. His heir is the son of a concubine, who is also a Bene Gesserit (or witch), who are both feared and respected in their society. This makes the son special as he has unique abilities that lend him to be a potential messiah figure to many in his world and beyond, however it is possibly the end of his father. 

The story begins with the trials of the boy, Paul, by the Reverend mother to determine if he may be this Saviour. He passes, though to the distaste of the Bene Gesserit, and the detriment of his mother, Jessica.  

Along with this trial, Paul’s father, the Duke, is in the midst of troubles with his mortal enemies as they try to take over a new world of sand. The world is already divided over the need for water but this shift in power causes even more difficulties. 

The intrigue of the story takes place during a time of tumult with many unhappy and difficult characters. It is full of scandal and palace intrigue. The tale ends in the midst of this world of chaos and with Paul and Jessica possibly lost forever to the desert or enemies. 

Review 

This graphic novel breathes new life to the classic Sci-Fi tale by Frank Herbert. The muted colors of the panels change with the planets, houses, and characters. Each setting has a different set of colors, the artists portray the emotion of the characters in each image. 

pg. 148-49 Rescue? Panels

The images and illustrations work beautifully together to pull the reader into the story and lives of the character. The adaptation of this story is wonderfully done. 

 

Book

Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. Illustrated by Raul Allen and Patricia Martin. Frank Herbert's Dune: The Graphic Novel, Book 1. (2020).