Brandon Sanderson’s rise to fame in the fantasy literature realm has shifted him from being the author who concluded The Wheel of Time series to a powerhouse in his own right.

Since his first book, “Elantris,” came out in 2005, Sanderson has created a wide-ranging and detailed collection of works that includes not only fantasy, but also science fiction and young adult literature. Series like Mistborn and the ambitious Stormlight Archive have earned him immense praise and positioned him as a leading figure in contemporary fantasy, likened to greats like J.R.R. Tolkien.

However, Sanderson’s extensive bibliography can be somewhat daunting for those curious about his writing. New readers may feel tempted to dive right into The Stormlight Archive, the latest of which is set for release in December, but Sanderson himself suggests that this is not the best starting point for newcomers.

Here’s a guide for those looking to explore Brandon Sanderson’s works and his recommended starting points.

Recommended Starting Points for Sanderson’s Books

Sanderson’s first book also serves as a great introduction for new readers, particularly those who aren’t well-versed in fantasy literature.

“Elantris,” which follows a man cursed with a magical affliction as he is banished to the eponymous city, showcases Sanderson’s signature world-building and intricate magical systems. Being a standalone narrative, it demands little commitment from readers initially.

Other recommendations for new readers include:

• “Steelheart,” the first book in the Reckoners series;
• “Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians,” aimed at middle schoolers, about rebels fighting an evil organization;
• “The Rithmatist,” targeted at young adults, centered on a school of magic.

Despite these suggestions, Sanderson has expressed some ambivalence regarding where newcomers should start. In a video earlier this year, he referred to his debut as “one of my weaker novels,” stating that “Elantris” doesn’t match the quality of his more recent works.

For this reason, Sanderson believes following the order of publication isn’t necessarily the best strategy for fans.

Understanding the Cosmere

Another significant factor for Sanderson readers is the need for a strategic plan to approach his books, as many of them are set within a larger fictional universe known as the Cosmere.

For example, while the Mistborn series can stand alone as a story, its characters share a universe with the distinct planet featured in The Stormlight Archive.

Things can become confusing, to say the least.

With the rise of shared universes in popular media, like the DC and Marvel franchises, many science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts are somewhat familiar with this concept.

Even though various series and stand-alone stories in Sanderson’s catalog have overlapping universes and share characters, the author reassures readers that it’s not crucial to grasp this detail to appreciate a book.

For those keen on experiencing the Cosmere’s interwoven tales, Sanderson suggests starting with the original Mistborn trilogy that chronicles powerful Allomancers battling an immortal ruler.

Following that trilogy, readers can delve into:

• “The Emperor’s Soul,” a Hugo Award-winning novella about a imprisoned magical forger facing a daunting challenge;
• The Stormlight Archive;
• “Elantris;”
• “Warbreaker,” a romantic saga featuring a princess and a formidable God King.

Reading Order for the Mistborn Series

Blending adventure and intrigue, the original Mistborn trilogy is set on the dark planet of Scadrial and follows outcasts who utilize metallic powers to stage a rebellion against an oppressive regime.

This series significantly boosted Sanderson’s fame and paved the way for additional Mistborn novels and the broader Cosmere universe.

The original Mistborn trilogy consists of three books:

• “The Final Empire”
• “The Well of Ascension”
• “The Hero of Ages”

Sanderson continued the saga with four more Mistborn volumes set 300 years after the original series, in a technologically advanced world where the initial characters are now seen as legendary figures.

The Wax and Wayne series features:

• “The Alloy of Law”
• “Shadows of Self”
• “The Bands of Mourning”
• “The Lost Metal”

He has plans for a third Mistborn era in the future. Additionally, “Mistborn: Secret History” is available as a supplementary novella to the original books, offering deeper lore and character insights.

Exploring ‘The Stormlight Archive’

For dedicated fans of fantasy, one series is particularly notable: Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archive.

On platforms like TikTok, this series is often regarded as unmatched in the modern fantasy genre.

Sanderson himself describes “Stormlight” on his website as his “big epic” and “most ambitious project.”

Taking place on the enchanted planet Roshar, the saga is an extensive tale featuring a diverse ensemble of characters, complex political situations, and warfare—all characterized by Sanderson’s renowned world-building, intricate magic systems, and rich lore. “Stormlight” began its journey in 2010, intending to be a ten-book series, with only four released so far, each exceeding 1,000 pages.

Sanderson states on his site, “This is my best story,” but adds a note: “It may take a bit longer to get into compared to my other works. Due to the depth of the story, you might feel a bit lost at first, but I assure you the experience is rewarding.”

However, it’s important to note that The Stormlight Archive wasn’t meant to be read non-stop: Sanderson suggests that readers looking to grasp the entire Cosmere narrative take breaks to enjoy other related books.

His suggested reading sequence could look something like this:

• “The Way of Kings” (book 1)
• “Words of Radiance” (book 2)
• “Edgedancer” (a Stormlight Archive novella)
• “Oathbringer” (book 3)
• “Dawnshard” (a Stormlight Archive novella)
• “Rhythm of War” (book 4)
• “The Sunlit Man” (a standalone Cosmere novel, one of Sanderson’s “secret projects” funded through Kickstarter in 2022 via Dragonsteel Entertainment)

All of this, Sanderson mentioned, “is meant to be read before delving into ‘Stormlight’ five.”

Speaking of which, “Wind and Truth” is set to be released on December 6. So, it’s time to get reading!