Dune is a science fiction novel written by Frank Herbert. Set in a distant future where interstellar travel and political intrigue are commonplace, the story follows Paul Atreides, a young nobleman who becomes the messiah-like figure of a desert planet called Arrakis. Dune is known for its complex world-building, intricate plot, and exploration of themes such as religion, ecology, and power. It is considered a classic of the genre and has spawned numerous sequels and adaptations.