DUNE 7 BLOG

Tuesday, January 17, 2006

Dune Lives

Even four decades after its original publication, DUNE continues to draw new readers worldwide. But then, you knew that -- you're already a DUNE fan if you're reading this blog.

Two new editions of the original novel have just been released. Some of you may want to "upgrade" your battered old paperbacks with one of these releases.

A special "40th Anniversary Edition" has just been published in trade-paperback format, which includes a special eight-page Afterword by Brian Herbert. Cover price $16, ISBN 0-441-01359-7.

Also, Penguin has reprinted the hardcover of DUNE with new dustjacket art as part of its "Classics of Modern Literature" line. Finally, DUNE is being recognized not just as a great work of science fiction, but a great work of literature in general.

The new flap copy reads, "Here is the novel that will be forever considered a triumph of the imagination. Set on the desert planet Arrakis, DUNE is the story of the boy Paul Atreides, who would become the mysterious man known as Muad'Dib. He would avenge the traitorous plot against his noble family -- and would bring to fruition humankind's most ancient and unattainable dream.

"A stunning blend of adventure and mysticism, environmentalism and politics, DUNE won the first Nebula Award, shared the Hugo Award, and formed the basis for what is undoubtedly the grandest epic in science fiction."

Apparently, this edition is primarily for educators or libraries and may be difficult to find. ISBN 0-441-01405-4.

--KJA