Frank (Patrick) Herbert 1920–

American science fiction novelist, short story writer, and journalist.

In his best-selling novels, Herbert investigates the physical and spiritual limitations of humankind, creating complex philosophical and religious systems in order to examine society's perception of itself and its future. His Dune trilogy has a strong cult following and is becoming a science fiction classic. It incorporates ideas about ecology, the hero mystique, and genetic planning, all within an ingenious plot.

His recent addition to the Dune series, God Emperor of Dune, continues the Atreides saga in the desert world of Arrakis. Most critics agree, however, that it lacks the imaginative brilliance of Dune.

(See also CLC, Vol. 12; Contemporary Authors, Vols. 53-56; Contemporary Authors New Revision Series, Vol. 5; Something about the Author, Vol. 9; and Dictionary of Literary Biography, Vol. 8.)