Dune

3.5ish (maybe 3.75) rounded up to 4 stars

If I viewed this book from the perspective of where it stands in the “history of sci-fi”, and how much of a trailblazer it was in that regard, I might have given it the clean 4 – but I'd much rather judge it solely on the merits of the book.

There are two things Herbert seems to greatly enjoy writing – political squabble and biologically accurate world building/planetary elements. Dialogue between characters is unique and well written. Descriptions of the world that is Arrakis are meticulous enough to evoke feelings akin to reading a textbook about a country you've never heard of.

Outside of these two primary concepts, Dune fell slightly short to me. Multiple times, I found myself longing for just... more story? Time would cut, locations would change, perspectives cut short, and I'd walk away deeply curious for everything that actually did happen in between those windows.

The last 70 pages are a shining example of what Dune “could have been” to be a 4.5, or even perfect 5 star book. Without getting into any spoiler territory, I'd honestly argue that the book is worth a read to get through to that point – especially if you pay close attention while reading until that point.