Where to start

[Thor_Doomhammer]

I've never read the Dune series, and I am about to start. I heard that I should start with a book besides the original Dune book. What do you think?

[The Ace]

"Dune," was the first to be written, the later prequels assume a basic knowledge, of the plots and situations a new reader wouldn't always have. Be warned though it is a very big book in every sense of the word.

[Ice fyre]

With you on that one.

Dune is the one to start with in my humble opinion. It is a long book but worth it. I would avoid the prequels, I really did not like them at all. But you are your own person and its only an opnion

[j. d. worthington]

Frankly, I really can't imagine starting that series anywhere but with the original. It's more accessible, as it was originally serialized in magazines before being published as a novel, so it was written to introduce new readers to the entire concept. It's also a wonderful book that grows with repeated readings, I find. So, definitely, Dune would be my vote....

[pyan]

Concur.
And avoid the B.Herbert/K.Anderson prequels untill you've read the originals - annd then just avoid them full stop.

[palooka]

Another 'Aye' for Dune. It's the best one as well.

[Nesacat]

Meowrr to that. Starting with 'Dune' wpuld be the best way to go. Followed by all the rest by Frank Herbert and then if you care for them go ahead to the ones by Brian Herbert.