DREAMER OF DUNE

Arguably the most popular twentieth-century science fiction novel, Frank Herbert''s Dune (1965) integrated social, ecological, and religious commentary into a new kind of world-building that captivated sf readers much as Lord of the Rings enthralled fantasy fans. Brian Herbert''s heartfelt, if not highly polished, biography of his father portrays a man with large faults and virtues. Impatient with children, Herbert insisted on quiet and order to write, and when little, Brian and brother Bruce suffered their father''s booming voice and such tricks as being hooked up to a homemade lie detector they were convinced revealed their every thought. While Herbert lavished affection on their mother, the boys felt dispossessed. Brian became a binge drinker, Bruce struggled with drugs and homosexuality. Half-sister Penny, child of a brief first marriage, enjoyed better relations with Herbert because she visited only occasionally. Herbert shone, however, when he encouraged Brian to write. Eventually father and son became companionable. Hard-won appreciation pervades a book also distinguished by commentary on David Lynch''s film Dune and Herbert''s passage from struggling to world-renowned author. Roberta Johnson Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.