Dreamer Of Dune: The Biography Of Frank Herbert by Brian Herbert
01/07/2003 . Source: Geoff Willmetts 

pub: TOR. 576 page hardback. Price: $27.95 (US), $41.95 (CAN). ISBN: 0-765-30646-8.

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I’m not normally a reader of biographies. The fact that there is even one of a Science Fiction writer is even more remarkable as they are mostly either encyclopaedia bios or as footnotes accompanying short stories.

This book, as the title no doubt should give away, is the biography of Frank Herbert, gone from this life some 17 years ago now. The legacy of ‘Dune’ is no doubt known by even the most novice SF fan.

If you like the author then you’re bound to have some interest in his background.

Brian Herbert made notes all through his father’s life and brought them together in this book in a cohesive fashion. This book not only covers Frank Herbert’s life but also that of his wife and family in a warts and all fashion.

It doesn’t take much reading behind the lines here to realise Frank Herbert was somewhat of a bully to his children when they were young as they encroached on his concentration when he was writing. When they became adults, it was easier for him to communicate with them providing they talked the same language as himself.

In many ways, this is an important book for any SF fan or neo-writer to read. Frank Herbert wasn’t suddenly there as a big time writer. We follow his struggles to sell his stories and live on the breadline until his big breakthrough and how his reputation developed.

It should comfort and reassure any neo-writer who recognises themselves in a similar fashion that this business depends on survival instinct as much as talent and storycraft.

For those who want background information about some of the sources for ‘Dune’ will find a lot of tit-bits hidden away as well as a lot of writing advice Frank Herbert gave Brian Herbert, his son. There is also an immense bibliography section covering all of Herbert’s works and must be seen as the definitive list of his work.

Brian Herbert’s writing style will keep you glued to this book. It can’t help but be an emotional piece of work as we follow the lives of his parents as they combat cancer and other maladies. Of the many books out this year, I think this should be on any SF fan’s reading list.

GF Willmetts