Frank Herbert’s sprawling science fiction universe is expanding once again in print, as Abrams ComicArts prepares to release Dune Messiah: Book 1 on November 3. The new graphic novel adaptation tackles the darker sequel to the seminal original novel, following Paul Atreides as he navigates the heavy burdens of absolute power as Emperor of the known universe. Preorders for the book are currently open, giving fans a new way to experience the political intrigue and prophetic dilemmas of Arrakis before the next major cinematic entries hit theaters.
The creative force bringing this adaptation to life is the same team responsible for the prequel series Dune: House of Harkonnen. Writers Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson are teaming up once more to script the narrative, while artist Michael Shelfer handles the interior illustrations and Bill Sienkiewicz provides painted cover art. This first installment splits the source material into a two-book arc, focusing heavily on the immediate threats facing Paul's reign, including the imprisonment of dissidents like Bronso of Ix who dare to challenge the emperor's infallible public image.
Fans attending the upcoming New York Comic Con will have an opportunity to hear more about the project directly from the creators. Kevin J. Anderson is scheduled to appear at the Abrams Spotlight Panel on October 8 to discuss the production of Dune Messiah: Book 1 and share insights into translating Frank Herbert's complex political landscape into the comic medium. Meanwhile, readers can also catch early visual previews of the artwork ahead of the official November release date.
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