+ Books +
+primarily those that I've read
++ I wouldn't say that I read a lot. + This page exists because I am generally dissatisfied will Goodreads + and its competitors. + My commentary may or may not include spoilers (clearly marked). + The contents are placed here in no particular order. +
++ the books +
+ + + + +Dune
+ 1965
+8
++ I read the first Dune book without having seen the + Lynch film + and before the new movie was released. + Unfortunately, I found that, in addition to the typical suspension of disbelief + required by this genre, it was necessary to look past many interesting + opinions Frank had regarding women (see: Heretics of Dune). +
+ Dune Messiah
+ 1969
+8
++ Messiah is far more philosophical than Dune. + Herbert's anti-theocracy and anti-autocracy messaging is far stronger here. + One might say that Herbert's rejection of charismatically driven tyranny + was prescient. +
+ Children of Dune
+ 1976
+7.5
++ In my mind, Children of Dune exists almost solely to set up its sequel. + This book has some very uncomfortable moments + (although by no means the worst this series has to offer) + arising from Herbert's use of children characters with adult memories. +
+ God Emperor of Dune
+ 1981
+9
++ A common criticism of GEoD is heavy use of monologue; + I quite enjoyed the Worm's lengthy expositions. + Philosophy aside, I enjoy this book for the absurdity of + its premise: + a giant worm has near-complete control over + the entirety of humanity. +
+ Heretics of Dune
+ 1984
+6.5
++ How I adore Herbert's writing of women. + There are many interesting ideas in Heretics, + but this is in large part overshadowed by the more objectionable content. + + As far as I can tell, Duncan is thirteen in this book. + Fine, he reacquires his old memories, but the Bene Gesserit + were planning to imprint him before that. + The idea of imprinting is revolting on its own, + but the pairing with an underage character is more so. + +
+ Neuromancer
+ 1984
+7
++ Although I found it hard to follow at times, + Neuromancer's numerous contributions (if not outright creation of) to the genre + cannot be dismissed. + I found Gibson's writing of women characters to be lackluster; + I personally can do without unexpected smut. + The sequel, Count Zero, leaned this direction so quickly as to + prompt my abandonment of the trilogy. +
+ Be More Chill
+ 2004
+3
++ I have little to say about this entry. + YA is not typically my preference, and this book did little to change that. +
+