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How to Read the Dune Books in Chronological Order

Author : Grace Update : Mar 18,2025

Since Frank Herbert's groundbreaking 1965 novel, Dune, captivated readers, the series' intricate political landscape has continued to enthrall. While Herbert penned six novels, his son Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson have expanded the canon significantly. The series now boasts an astonishing 23 novels, spanning 15,000 years of history. Navigating this expansive saga can be daunting, so we've created a comprehensive reading guide.

With Dune: Messiah adaptations on the horizon, now's the ideal time to explore the original novels. Below is a complete Dune book timeline to help you embark on your reading journey. The order can be tricky, depending on your starting point.

How Many Dune Books Are There?

Technically, the Dune franchise comprises 23 books. 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 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 contain spoilers for the Dune book series.

The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This prequel trilogy opener, written decades after the original Dune, establishes and expands upon the world-building and lore. Chronologically, it's the earliest in the canon, set approximately 10,000 years before Herbert's original novel. It depicts the brutal war between humanity and the artificial intelligence they created, shaping the technologically-sparse feudal world of the later books.

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The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The second book introduces key figures in the Dune universe. As the war continues, readers encounter ancestors of House Atreides and House Harkonnen, furthering the conflict with the sentient computer overlord, Ominus. Intricate plotting and world-building set the stage for the climactic battle.

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

Dune: The Battle of Corrin

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Set 100 years after *The Butlerian Jihad*, Ominus's plan for domination nears fruition. The most brutal phase of the war begins, shaping the status quo of the original *Dune* and introducing the Fremen as Paul encounters them.

Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Sisterhood of Dune

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This "Schools of Dune" entry, 83 years after *The Battle of Corrin*, focuses on a world without thinking machines. It follows various characters, revealing details about the Butlerian movement and the escalating violence across the galaxy.

Mentats of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Mentats of Dune

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With thinking machines destroyed, Mentat schools are established to train highly intelligent humans. The story follows a young woman seeking vengeance, threatening the fragile peace and the survival of the schools.

Navigators of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Navigators of Dune

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This final "Schools of Dune" book focuses on the growing threat of anti-technology forces. The question remains: can reason prevail against the spreading fanaticism?

House Atreides by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

House Atreides

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The first "Prelude to Dune" novel, set 35 years before the original *Dune*, introduces Leto Atreides, Duncan Idaho, Baron Harkonnen, and Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam. Political intrigue sets the stage for a pivotal battle.

House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

House Harkonnen

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This continues the Prelude trilogy, showcasing the scheming and power struggles between Houses Harkonnen and Atreides, leading to the events of Herbert's novels.

House Corrino by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

House Corrino

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

Princess of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Princess of Dune

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This companion novel tells the stories of Irulan and Chani, the two women in Paul Atreides' life, offering insights into their experiences and relationships with him.