Who is Frank Herbert? An outstanding writer, a classic of science fiction literature. Among his awards are many literary awards. Herbert was recognized as one of the best writers of all time! His most famous book is the novel “Dune”, where the author considers topics such as religion, ecology, politics and reflects on the survival of all mankind! We invite you to get to know this unique writer better!
Herbert Biography
Frank Herbert, whose full name sounds like Frank Patrick Herbert Jr., was born on October 8, 1920 in Tacoma (Washington State). From childhood, he dreamed of being a writer. Perhaps that is why Frank, having graduated from school in 1938, joined the well-known newspaper Glendale Star. It is worth noting that at the same time he lied about his age! Before becoming a professional writer, Herbert changed several editions, graduated from Washington University, and even taught. In addition, Frank Herbert's track record includes working for the Lincoln Foundation as an environmental consultant.
During the Second World War, Frank served as a photographer in the Navy, but after six months of service, he was commissioned.
Personal life
In 1941, Herbert legitimized his relationship with Flora Parkinson, but four years later this marriage broke up, despite the appearance of Penny's daughter. In 1946, Frank Herbert met Beverly Ann Stewart. In the same year they got married, a year later - in 1947 - the couple had their first child, and in 1951 - the second.
It is worth saying that married life was not easy. For the sake of a writing career, Beverly's husband had to give up all her creative plans. Frank and his wife discuss all aspects of their stories. She was his editor. By the way, the history of these relations is described by Herbert in the book "Dreamer of Dune." After Beverly’s death, the writer married again - to Theresa Sheckelford.
Creative way
The first work of Frank Herbert - a story entitled "Looking for something?" (Looking for Something?). This story was published in Startling Stories in 1952. During the fifties of the last century, the science fiction writer managed to publish about 15 stories. At the same time, the novel The Dragon in the Sea (Dragon in the Sea) was released, which was later published under the name Under Pressure. But all these works did not bring Frank Herbert such popularity as the 1963 publication of the amazing novel "The World of Dune." The novel was published in the journal Analog and became the first part of an exciting saga. Later in Analog came the sequel - “The Prophet of the Dunes”.
In the mid-60s, both parts were combined into one full-fledged novel. This work instantly fell in love with readers from all over the world, received a worldwide vocation. Dune has been awarded a number of prestigious awards, including the Hugo and Nebula. In 1969, Frank Herbert's next book from this series, The Messiah of the Dunes, was published in 1976, The Children of the Dune. In the early 80s, readers were delighted with the book God the Emperor of Dune, and three years later another sequel, The Heretics of Dune, came out. The last book in the series, written by Herbert, is called “The Capitulum of the Dune, ” published in 1985. It is worth noting that the saga was continued by Frank's son - Brian.
Among the works of Frank Herbert can be identified as follows:
- “Direction is Emptiness” of 1966.
- "Creators of heaven" of 1967.
- The Star Under the Scourge of 1970.
- Soul Catcher, 1972.
- The White Plague of 1982.
The writer actively collaborated with other authors, for example, in collaboration with Bill Ranson, he published The Incident with Jesus, The Lazarus Effect, Ascension Factor. The result of joint work with his son was the book “A Man of Two Worlds”.
