The sequels to Dune are Dune Messiah (1970); Children of Dune (1976); God Emperor of Dune (1981); Heretics of Dune (1984); Chapterhouse: Dune (1985).

Herbert traces the fortunes of his planet, Arrakis, and its theocracy through Dune Messiah (1970) and Children of Dune (1976), completing what was originally to be a trilogy. However, Herbert chose to expand on the growth of the empire that the people of Dune had created. Cod Emperor of Dune (1981) was followed by Heretics of Dune (1984) and by Chapterhouse of Dune (1985).

Even though many critics now regard Dune as a classic of science fiction, its sequel Dune Messiah remains controversial, with some critics admiring its leaner narrative and well-focused plot and with most critics viewing its plot-centered construction as an unpleasant interruption in a series of theme-centered novels. In this latter view, Children of Dune and its successors compare well with Dune and are superior to Dune Messiah, which...