Revisiting Frank Herbert’s ‘Dune’
Podcast: NPR's Book of the DayPublished On: Sat Dec 06 2025
Description: Frank Herbert’s 1965 epic Dune was once the domain of sci-fi diehards. But in recent years, the book has crossed over into the mainstream. In today’s Books We’ve Loved, Andrew Limbong and B.A. Parker are joined by Throughline’s Ramtin Arablouei, who makes a personal case for the story’s appeal – despite its density. Then, special guest, author Pierce Brown, shares whether he thinks Dune has reached Star Wars levels of cultural saturation.Ramtin’s Recommendation: ‘Rendezvous with Rama’ by Arthur C. ClarkeParker’s Recommendation: ‘The Left Hand of Darkness’ by Ursula K. Le GuinAndrew’s Recommendation: ‘Saga’ by Brian K. VaughnTo listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
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