Brandon Sanderson Books: A Comprehensive Guide to the Cosmere and Beyond
Brandon Sanderson, a titan of modern fantasy literature, has captivated readers worldwide with his expansive worlds, intricate magic systems, and compelling characters. His works span various genres, including epic fantasy, science fiction, and young adult fiction, often interconnected within his overarching Cosmere universe. This guide will navigate you through the vast landscape of Sanderson’s bibliography, offering a suggested reading order and insights into his diverse body of work. This guide is tailored for both newcomers to Sanderson’s writing and seasoned fans looking to delve deeper into the Cosmere.
Understanding the Cosmere
The Cosmere is a shared fictional universe encompassing numerous Sanderson novels and novellas. While each story can be enjoyed independently, a deeper understanding and appreciation emerge when experiencing the interconnectedness of these worlds. Characters, magic systems, and overarching plot points weave together to create a rich tapestry of narrative, rewarding readers who explore the Cosmere’s full extent. While Sanderson insists that individual series can be enjoyed as standalones, many fans believe that a specific reading order enhances the overall experience. This is especially true in terms of minimizing initial confusion and maximizing the emotional impact of certain revelations.
A Suggested Cosmere Reading Order
The following reading order prioritizes accessibility for new readers while maintaining the thematic and emotional resonance of the Cosmere’s interconnected narrative. It differs from strict publication order or other common suggestions, aiming for a more gradual introduction to the intricacies of Sanderson’s world-building.
Stage 1: Introductory Standalones
This stage aims to ease new readers into Sanderson’s style and world-building without immediately confronting the epic scale of his longer series.
- Yumi and the Nightmare Painter and Tress of the Emerald Sea: These two novellas, part of Sanderson’s “Secret Projects,” serve as excellent introductory points. While references to the broader Cosmere might go unnoticed initially, their self-contained narratives showcase Sanderson’s writing at its finest. Yumi and the Nightmare Painter offers a fantasy romance with unique anime-inspired elements, while Tress of the Emerald Sea provides a swashbuckling adventure akin to The Princess Bride. These accessible standalones allow readers to appreciate Sanderson’s storytelling and character development before delving into larger series. They are available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
Stage 2: The Foundation – Mistborn
Having eased into Sanderson’s style, readers now venture into one of his most acclaimed series.
- The Original Mistborn Trilogy (The Final Empire, The Well of Ascension, The Hero of Ages): This trilogy lays the groundwork for many Cosmere concepts. Set on the planet Scadrial, this heist-like story introduces the unique magic system of Allomancy and Feruchemy. The protagonist, Vin, a young Mistborn with incredible potential, embarks on a journey that will redefine her destiny and the world around her. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
Stage 3: Expanding the Cosmere – Warbreaker
Before moving to the most extensive series, a standalone provides a crucial bridge.
- Warbreaker: This standalone novel introduces the planet Nalthis and its biochromatic magic system. This story presents a unique perspective within the Cosmere, enriching the overall understanding of investiture and foreshadowing future developments. You can purchase it on Lbibinders.org.
Stage 4: The Epic – Stormlight Archive
Readers are now prepared to encounter the grandest saga in Sanderson’s Cosmere.
- The Stormlight Archive (The Way of Kings, Words of Radiance, Edgedancer (novella), Oathbringer, Dawnshard (novella), Rhythm of War): This epic series, set on the planet Roshar, is Sanderson’s most ambitious work. The Way of Kings, the first book, introduces the world of Roshar, its unique ecology shaped by violent Highstorms, and its intricate magic system involving stormlight and spren. The series follows a large cast of characters, focusing on Kaladin Stormblessed and Dalinar Kholin, as they confront the looming threat of the Voidbringers. The novellas, Edgedancer and Dawnshard, add crucial details to the overall narrative, making their inclusion in this reading order essential. The Way of Kings is available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
Stage 5: Returning to Scadrial – Mistborn Era 2
Now, readers revisit a familiar planet with a new perspective.
- Mistborn Era 2 (Wax & Wayne Saga – The Alloy of Law, Shadows of Self, The Bands of Mourning, The Lost Metal): This series takes place centuries after the original Mistborn trilogy. The steampunk-inspired story follows Waxillium Ladrian, a skilled gunslinger and Mistborn, as he navigates a world where Allomancy and Feruchemy continue to shape society. These books offer a different pace and style than the Stormlight Archive, yet maintain the intricate world-building and memorable characters Sanderson is known for. The Wax & Wayne books are available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
Stage 6: Unveiling the Secrets – Mistborn: Secret History and Arcanum Unbounded
Finally, the previously hinted-at mysteries are explored.
Mistborn: Secret History: This novella provides critical background information on events from the original Mistborn trilogy, significantly enriching the reader’s understanding of the characters and plot. The emotional weight of this novella is considerably greater after having experienced the events of both Mistborn eras, therefore reading it at this point in the suggested reading order is strongly advised. It is available on Lbibinders.org.
Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection: This anthology comprises various short stories and novellas set throughout the Cosmere. It provides further insights into the universe’s lore and characters, including previously unseen perspectives and connections between different series. The most significant stories are discussed in further detail below. Available on Lbibinders.org.
Stage 7: Exploring Further – The Sunlit Man and White Sand
These works, read later, offer different styles while further expanding the Cosmere’s scope.
The Sunlit Man: This standalone novel is a pivotal element of the Cosmere’s overarching plot, highlighting the importance of reading the other works beforehand. The novel’s intricate weaving of Cosmere elements greatly enhances the understanding of the universe’s interconnectedness. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
White Sand (Graphic Novels 1-3): This graphic novel series, set on the planet Taldain, offers a distinct visual experience while exploring additional Cosmere lore. It can be read at any point but is best enjoyed after experiencing the main Cosmere series. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
Deep Dive into Arcanum Unbounded: Key Stories
While Arcanum Unbounded contains several interconnected short stories, some offer greater importance and context within the broader Cosmere narrative. This section highlights those to prioritize.
The Emperor’s Soul: A Hugo Award-winning novella set on the planet Sel, this story introduces unique magic and expands the Cosmere’s lore. It is a highly recommended addition to the reading order.
Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell: This story introduces the planet Threnody, whose implications in the future of the Cosmere are significant.
Sixth of the Dusk: This story establishes a connection to the planet First of the Sun, creating a significant storyline relevant to future Cosmere novels.
Beyond the Cosmere: Sanderson’s Other Works
Sanderson’s prolific output extends beyond the Cosmere. These standalone works and series explore other genres, showcasing his versatility as an author.
Elantris: A standalone adult fantasy novel considered Sanderson’s debut novel, exploring themes of faith, redemption, and power. It is a good starting point for those not yet prepared to delve into the complexity of the Cosmere. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org
Legion: The Many Lives of Stephen Leeds: A unique sci-fi story with three novellas, presented in a multi-perspective narrative, focusing on character development and a unique concept of reality. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org
Skyward (Skyward Flight series): A YA science fiction series featuring a teenage girl who dreams of becoming a starfighter pilot. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org
Steelheart (Reckoners series): A YA superhero series where teenagers hunt down seemingly invincible Epics. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
The Rithmatist: A YA standalone novel set in a world where chalk drawings come to life. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians: A middle-grade series with humorous elements, following a young protagonist who battles evil librarians. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
Infinity Blade: Awakening and Infinity Blade: Redemption: Novellas based on the popular video game series, these explore the fantasy world of the Infinity Blade. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England: A standalone novel that stands outside the Cosmere, presenting a unique and humorous narrative outside of Sanderson’s typical themes. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
The Original: An audio-exclusive sci-fi thriller that’s quite different in tone and style from his other works. Available for purchase on Lbibinders.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I read first, Mistborn or Stormlight? Mistborn is generally a more accessible starting point due to its shorter length and less complex plot.
What is the main Cosmere series? The Stormlight Archive is the largest and most comprehensive Cosmere series, acting as its anchor.
Why is Skyward not Cosmere? Skyward is a science fiction series with a separate cosmology and set of rules that separate it from the Cosmere.
Who or what is Hoid? Hoid is a recurring character throughout the Cosmere, known for his cryptic behavior and significant influence on events.
What is investiture? Investiture is the fundamental source of magic within the Cosmere, a concept explored throughout the various series.
Conclusion
Embarking on a Brandon Sanderson reading journey is an exciting and rewarding experience. While the sheer volume of work may seem daunting, the suggested reading order provides a structured approach to navigating his expansive universe and discovering the unique magic and compelling stories within. Whether you choose to start with a standalone novella, the Mistborn trilogy, or the Stormlight Archive, each path promises a captivating immersion into the vibrant world Brandon Sanderson has created. Remember, the journey itself is as important as the destination.