A beginning is the time for taking the most delicate care
that the balances are correct. This every sister of the Bene Gesserit knows.
To begin your study of the life of Muad'Dib, then, take care that you first
place him in his time: born in the 57th year of the Padishah Emperor,
Shaddam IV. And take the most special care that you locate Muad'Dib in his
place: the planet Arrakis. Do not be deceived by the fact that he was born
on Caladan and lived his first fifteen years there. Arrakis, the planet
known as Dune, is forever his place.
--from "Manual of Muad'Dib" by the Princess Irulan
In the distant future, the Emperor of the Known Universe orders Duke Leto Atreides to take stewardship of the planet Arrakis, the origin of the spice mélange, replacing the Atreides archenemy, the Harkonnens. Surrounded by betrayal and intrigue, the only hope for Duke Atreides and his family is to join forces with the native people and for his son to become their leader and messiah.
"Unique . . . I know of nothing comparable to it except Lord of the Rings."
--Arthur C. Clarke
"Powerful, convincing, and most ingenious."
--Robert A. Heinlein