Gotta say, it’s really cool of Brandon to do something like this. I’m working my way through the Cosmere by publication order (just finished Warbreaker), but that’s mainly because I’m a crazy person who’s already fully committed and I want to see the evolution of Brandon’s style. I know my way is not the best way, so I love the fact that I can just show people this video to get them started. 😊
@@Comicbroe405 I guess. But I have some friends who’ve wanted to get into Brandon’s work without having to commit to all the Cosmere stuff, and I can’t help them because I still haven’t read most of it.
What makes you say your way is not the best way? That implies there's an objective "best way," which seems unlikely to be true considering how subjective our preference in fiction is. Hold your way high and proud. :)
@@mascot4950 I mean it’s not the best way for everyone, especially not for my friends who don’t have as much time or patience as I do. I’m the type of person who’s not a casual fan of anything. When I become a fan of something, I become borderline obsessed with it. This video is great for someone who wants to read Brandon’s work but might be too intimidated to start at the very beginning. Cuz Elantris is good, but I don’t know if I would recommend it to a Sanderson virgin.
I’m doing the same cause I hate missing references/connections that might be made to prior books I haven’t read. Just finished alloy of law in a week after it took me a good 6 months to finish way of kings! Stick with it I think it’s a great way to read his stuff
I started with Mistborn 10 years ago, read it in my first language, and right now Im reading it for the fifth time because once in a while I feel the urge of living the story one more time. Mistborn has a special place in my heart 🫶🏼 Thank you Brandon Sanderson for your amazing work.
I'm so glad The Emperor's Soul was mentioned. It wasn't my first of his works, but I think it is the most concise and poignant showcase of Sanderson's style. The characters' inner worlds, the magic system, and the plot all push and pull on one another in meaningful, believable ways in his stories, and The Emperor's Soul condenses this all into a small, powerful, and emotional package. The only thing it's missing is an otherworldly weather phenomenon, but maybe that's what happens when most of it takes place in a single room.
Elantris was my favorite novel of his (before Tress), but I still haven't read Emperor's Soul (even though it's set in the same planet).. maybe I should.
I started from the Way of Kings, and while it remains my favorite series I don’t typically suggest people start there unless they’re ready for the long haul. I like recommending Elantris to people since it’s Sanderson’s first published book, but I view Mistborn as the best starting point of any of them. I believe Steelheart is another excellent starting point as well.
I also recommend either Elantris or Warbreaker as a starting point for his works. While I love the Stormlight Archive novels, they are long and intense and not for everyone.
I'd recommend Stormlight for people who are used to reading high fantasy with massive books and slower beginnings (something like Robin Hobb or The Wheel of Time), otherwise definitely not
@@SilverstreamPJ28 I typically hype those people up on the Stormlight archive, then tell them to read Warbreaker as homework before starting. It’s really funny.
A few months ago i started my Cosmere journey with Warbreaker. now i was never really much of a reader but somehow i finished it in only 3 nights and i loved it! Even now some moments of that book still stick with me. Got the way of kings right after finishing warbreaker and i can already tell i am in for a treat! Thank you, Brandon for all your hard work!
I’m jealous of you I wish I could read The Way of Kings for the first time again. Stormlight Archive is a series that so far just keeps ramping up and getting better with each addition to the series
I wasn't sure how I felt about Way of Kings (and Stormlight) till the very end of the book, but Words of Radiance is spectacular. Definitely read at least the first two!
i had the same exact experience just a few months ago too lol, starting with warbreaker and followed with way of kings right after- i loved warbreaker sm and the emotional payoff and satisfaction is only amplified in the stormlight archives honestly, so you're def in for a treat, enjoy!
Warbreaker is one of my favorites! My first was Elantris. I loved the characters, the pacing, and that it was a completed story. The world building and magic system was so cool (also horrifying for a bit). His short(er) works are a good glimpse into the worldbuilding he can do.
Continuing collaboration with Graphic Audio is an absolute delight! Their unique style truly breathes life into your books, creating an immersive experience that I thoroughly enjoy.
@@alassesinda I have listened to ALL of the cosmere in audiobook format multiple times. I go for the ones read by Michael Kramer first, but if he isn't available for a given book, I go for the graphic audio ones. I think they are pretty good too.
I started with Way of Kings, absolutely no regrets. Barely knew anything about it but I wanted a good fantasy book that is as long as possible. I had a job that allowed me to spend 4+h a day listening to audiobooks/music while I worked and I only got one free book a month with the audible subscription, so I needed to make it count. Was absolutely loving it after a bit of a slow start and was thrilled to find out, that there are multiple equally long books to follow WoK
Emperor's soul is actually my first recommendation to people if I'm unsure they'd be willing to commit to The Final Empire or The Way of Kings. It's a perfect little microcosm of everything I love about Brandon's work wrapped up in an amazing short story that's easy for people to pick up and test the waters with low commitment.
yeah that's how i feel about warbreaker too, bc though it's not short it's a standalone rn and it gives a great feel of his worldbuilding, magic systems, and writing. i remember being particularly interested in starting with it bc the recommendation i saw said it would give an example of his endings without starting a whole series, much less an unfinished one, and it def paid off and made me more excited to know the rest likely wouldn't disappoint. haven't read emperor's soul yet, but will keep it in mind as another starting point now too, so thanks :)
Really? I just began exploring Sanderson's works, and I started with Elantris, and in my opinion, it's masterfully written. I'll have to try your recommendation afterward to see for myself.
I started with Way of Kings not knowing ANYTHING about Brandon Sanderson back when they used to do "free ebook" promotions. I started reading it on a plane trip to a conference and ended up not getting any sleep that whole weekend because I was busy devouring the book every second I had away from my conference ^.^'
I would like to suggest Warbreaker as a great starting point as well. It’s a stand alone novel that does a great job of getting rasters in to a new magic system and it leads in to the stormlight archives. My book club started there and it was great
I started with Mistborn and agree, it’s an excellent starting point in Brandon’s worlds. After finishing the second Mistborn book, Well of Ascension, I plunged headfirst into the Way of Kings and have been hooked ever since. Can’t wait for the fifth book later this year, I’ve already read the other four twice.
School made me hate reading so much. After Game of Thrones show I started watching UA-camrs who were readers and realized that I liked fiction way more than I thought. I saw your lectures about writing fantasy and sci-fi (2020) and started writing my own stories but since I didn't read fiction before it was a bit hard and decided to give one of your books a go. I am half way through the first book of Mistborn and O, my Lord Ruler, I am HOOKED ;D
I started with the stormlight archive the spring of 2023, other than the secret project four in 8 months I have read every single cosmere book and story, I think it's an amazing place to start
This is an important place to start. I think making comparisons to other books is also incredibly useful. Most people would probably be intimidated by your description of TWoK, but when you bring up that its "like" GoT, then you start catching peoples eyes. Comparisons help a lot.
My journey with the Cosmere started with the Stormlight Archive. I read all of the current books (Up to Rhythm of War) before reading any of the other books. Now (having read all of the current Cosmere books and novellas up to January 2024) I would absolutely recommend starting with the Stormlight series because you get to understand all the concepts of the Cosmere through the lense of an EPIC story. All of those elements revealed in such an interesting world really is such a unique reading journey! The downside is that earlier series don’t have as much of a “Wow factor.” But the whole universe he has built is worth your time!
I started with Elantris followed by The Hope of Elantris. Now I am reading The Emperor's Soul. I think after that I am going to read Warbreaker and/or Tress of the Emerald Sea, before moving on to the first 3 books of the Mistborn Saga. After that I might finally start with the Stormlight Archives. Also, if Elantris is supposed to be Brandon Sanderon's "worst" book, then I am in for a ride :)
Started with Tress actually, at the start of last year! Since, have read every published book/novella in the Cosmere and Skyward! It was such a fun year for me :)
I started with Elantris. My linguistics professor mentioned it in class (I feel like there was a specific reason, now forgotten) and a year or so later, I decided to read it in a post-finals week haze. My roommate and I dueled till about 3 in the morning reading it. I finished first, my eyes burning--despite my slower reading pace. Core memory. I like recommending standalones and completed series best.
I just finished Mistborn as my first book of Sanderson, and it really got me back into reading! I will definitely continue through the other Cosmere novels after I finish the trilogy. This was a great step into the universe and can't wait to start linking connections with the others. I like that there are a lot of Cosmere reading order lists to help out new readers!
My 10 year old and I have pushed Tress into my wife’s hands as a first Cosmere book. Our daughter has finished every Cosmere book aside from Warbreaker. She finished everything at least 3-4 times, and I’ve been trying to convince my wife to read it to understand what our kid is reading. I’ve been encouraging it as long as our kid can talk at least reasonably intelligently about them, but my wife is just starting to read fantasy books in general. We tried pushing Mistborn on the wife, but it got nowhere. Tress is fun, light hearted, and a shorter commitment. Aside from my personal enjoyment of the Cosmere, your books have pushed my kid to continue chasing more and more interesting books outside the kids section. Thank you, and I hope our other kids find the same enjoyment in them when they get older .
I think Yumi should get an honorable mention. The Sanderlanche is a little more clear in case you missed anything, like Tress, yet more substantial. And like Tress, it's centered around romance, adventure, and action. However, it's got a lot of Cosmere references that may come off as magitechnobabble, yet reveal themselves to be actual cohesive lore.
One thing I appreciated about starting with Mistborn is that it was a nice transition from YA fantasy to adult fantasy. From my own personal experience, I had read a few adult fantasy books but it was Mistborn that still felt like the YA fantasy books I was reading at the time while also having more adult characters, dealing with different themes, etc.
I started with elantris before I knew who Brandon was. Then I tried way of kings but it was too hard for my dyslexia and I couldn't follow it. Then I tried again with stormlight and really took my time and I fell in love. I tried mistborne one but couldn't follow it. Stormlight is my favorite; I love the audiobooks!
I’m trying to remember if I started the Cosmere with Elantris or Mistborn. I want to lean toward and say it was Mistborn. I know The Way of Kings was one of the later reads. I usually recommend if people want to get into the Cosmere they start with Mistborn. But now that the Secret Projects are out Tress is also a big contender.
Ah, Tress is a new favourite book for me now. Love the whimsical and fairytale vibes!!! Mistborn and Stormlight Archives are of course old favourites; SA has to be one of the most epic books that I've ever read!!
I started with Stormlight, and I think the only reason I was able to handle it was because I’d read Wheel of Time. Otherwise, idk if I’d ever have finished it or made it past the first book. All the books are amazing. Would recommend all of them.
I started with storm light archive the way of kings I’m reading them again since I haven’t read them in a couple years and I’m just getting back into reading. I have to finish the series but I’m the type that likes to reread from the beginning just for refreshers.
Ever since I read Tress it's become my go-to recommendation for people who want to get into the Cosmere. I've heard some people say it's a little bit different from the rest of your stuff, which is fair, but I think it does a really good job of telling you what to pay attention to in other Cosmere stories.
This is weird for me (since I almost always read books in publication order), but I started with WoK. Then read Mistborn. And just finally read Elantris and I absolutely loved Elantris.
Just finished Mistborn and moved into Elantris. I really want to get into the way of kings but I’m also trying to keep Mistborn mostly fresh in my mind so might do era 2 next so many books
I just recently started my journey through the Cosmere with Mistborn. I devoured the era 1 trilogy and moved onto Warbreaker, which I loved and got through quickly too. I’m 20% into way of kings now and so glad I went in the order I did because I TRUST this man with my life. It has made that beginning bit where you haven’t a clue wtf is going on much easier because I know it’ll all make sense soon enough.
Both Tress and Yumi are great starting places and have brought in a lot of new readers. Yes there are Easter Eggs, but if you haven't read anything else, you'll not notice nor be confused
I think Yumi’s story works a lot better if someone has read at the very least Warbreaker, as what’s going on already needs a clunky explanation that I worry would be overwhelming without at least some understanding of certain Cosmere mechanics. Though if a friend or loved one is on hand who understands a bit about the mechanics of what’s going on, I agree it’s a great book to hand someone
@@Florkl I think without cosmere knowledge, it's just "wibley-wobbly, timey whimey" non-answers to some of the world building, but it's still a fun story that can stand on its own. You just have to go along with it rather than focusing on "what does that word mean?!"
I love how all Brandon's book lengths are rough divided in powers of 2. 2 novellas = standard novel. 2 standard novels = longer novel, 2 longer novels = SA novel
Introduced to Brandon Sanderson's books near the end of last year. Finished Mistborn Era 1, Elantris and Warbreaker and most recently The Way of Kings. Every single one was awesome. Goal is to read at the minimum all of Cosmere books before Dragonsteel 2024, and hopefully catch up on Cytoverse books too...a long way to go!
I saw Mistborn (Final Empire) on the New Books shelf at my local library - early 2007? pub date was 2006 - and have been a "Sander-fan" ever since. I agree 100% with all of Brandon's recommendations: all excellent places to start. Thanks for this video! A convenient way for us to help friends choose how to join the fun.😀
Someday Brandon will have to add to every hook (I recommend you to read this books before this), because the latest Cosmere Novels need some extra context to be understanded.
This is list is exactly what and how I've been suggesting to new readers! However I am surprised he does not mention that Skyward is a separate universe to all the others. Some people are explicitly interested in knowing there's a larger overall connection between books, and that is what got them started.
I actually started with Elantris (which admittedly is probably not the best for many casual readers), but I thoroughly enjoyed it. That was also back when we found out Brandon was going to finish WoT so I needed a sense of who was taking over my favorite book series. Zero regrets on either decision! lol
My introduction to Brandon sanderson was I started dating a guy and he and I started listening to "Way of Kings" on some of our dates. By time we finished the book, he proposed, we got married, and moved across the country together. And yes, we now have an entire column dedicated to Brandon Sanderson books in our budget.
Mistborn era 1, then IMMEDIATELY ON TO Mistborn: secret history After that, idk stormlight or warbreaker. Mistborn era 2 is so different from era 1 that i think a break is a good idea.
I most often recommend Mistborn as an entry point for people. If it's someone who doesn't want to invest in a trilogy yet or is intimidated by the size I've actually recommended Warbreaker a few times and it's been a great way to hook those people to the cosmere.
I had not read fantasy books in years and wanted to get back into reading, especially fantasy... So I did the psychopath approch of reading The Way Of Kings, followed by Warbreaker, then Mistborn, and coming back to Stormlight and working my way through this, that, and more. Oh! And in between, started reading the Wheel Of Time. I think I'm broken or something... Enjoying it though ;)
To any new reader who might be seeing this. While I understand all the recommendations and agree with most of them, if you are at all concerned with spoilers please do not start with Tress of the Emerald Sea. While it is an amazing book and one of my recent favorites, it is set in the FAR future of the Cosmere and has certain small hints at spoilers for other books that if you catch onto, will lessen the impact of them in the original books which in my opinion would be a loss. Its better to RAFO. If you want a standalone cosmere book I'd read either Warbreaker or Elantris. Otherwise follow the above recommendations
The best place to start reading Sanderson books is standing next to the nearest dumpster fire skimming the titles as you throw them in. He's an awesome lecturer though and perfect proof that those who can't do should stick to teaching 😁🤣😂
I actually started with The Way of Kings. A few years ago I honestly had never heard of you. I've been going to my local library for years and the librarian knows exactly what I love to read though, and recommends new ones to me all the time. One day she pulled that one down for me, and since then you have legitimately become my favorite author. So much so, that your books are the first that I want to actually own instead of just borrowing. I'm slowly getting there. I plan to eventually get every one. The only series I've read not part of the Cosmere is the Reckoners, and I enjoyed those quite a bit too. There's an energy to your writing that I love. You have such amazing detailed worlds, but you never drown us in them, just let it all take shape naturally while moving the story forward. Thank you for being such an amazing storyteller.
I only started your work in 2023 and can't believe I waited this long, binged all of mistborn era 1 and 2, then a bunch of standalones, then stormlight archives. What a great ride. Thank you for the worlds you create.
I started with Mistborn a few years ago and I immediatly got hooked and binged all 3 books. Then I went to Elantris and I absolutely loved this one, I really look forward to coming back to Sel at some point. Unsurprisingly Stormlight Archive was next and The Way of Kings cemented you as the best Fantasy Author in my mind. Since then I have read all of the cosmere and its insane how constantly great these books are for the speed at wich you are writing them. I am currently going through Wheel of Time, largely because I found out you took over the series after RJ died. I look forward to going back through all of Stormlight again before the next book drops this year.
The Wheel of Time is my personal favorite book series, and Brandon Sanderson did very well with helping finish it for RJ, I was very happy with how the series ended
My first book by Brandon Sanderson was Tress of the Emerald Sea, and it had me utterly enchanted. I read it a few months ago, and I've already done a re-read 😂 I'm so excited to read more of his books!!
Many years ago I emailed Brandon and said that if he managed to finish Wheel Of Time successfully (I was heavily invested in those books), I would try one of his other books. He was kind enough to reply and he also completed WoT in a very satisfactory manner. So, I picked up Mistborn and began reading. I got thru about 2/3 of it before stopping. It felt heavy and more political than anything and I was done. I honestly didn't connect with any of the characters. However, I still haven't completed my end of the deal, so I think I will try Tress of the Emerald Sea, which I'd never heard of until this video.
And here am I who started with Children of the Nameless. I hear quite a while ago that Wizards of the Coast removed it, so you can't access it legitimately any more, and on a quick search, I did not find. But hopefully I'm wrong about that. (edit: yes, I know that is not "starting with Brandon" per se, but it was what introduced the author to me)
I love this kind of video. When sp1 came out, I wouldn't stop talking about it. After my 3rd reread, one of my friends was intrigued and listened to the audio book on Spotify, and they absolutely devoured that book. I think it's a great starting point for the whimsy craving readers.
Gotta say, it’s really cool of Brandon to do something like this. I’m working my way through the Cosmere by publication order (just finished Warbreaker), but that’s mainly because I’m a crazy person who’s already fully committed and I want to see the evolution of Brandon’s style. I know my way is not the best way, so I love the fact that I can just show people this video to get them started. 😊
I mean if you've come to like his work then I think its a good way.
@@Comicbroe405 I guess. But I have some friends who’ve wanted to get into Brandon’s work without having to commit to all the Cosmere stuff, and I can’t help them because I still haven’t read most of it.
What makes you say your way is not the best way? That implies there's an objective "best way," which seems unlikely to be true considering how subjective our preference in fiction is. Hold your way high and proud. :)
@@mascot4950 I mean it’s not the best way for everyone, especially not for my friends who don’t have as much time or patience as I do. I’m the type of person who’s not a casual fan of anything. When I become a fan of something, I become borderline obsessed with it. This video is great for someone who wants to read Brandon’s work but might be too intimidated to start at the very beginning. Cuz Elantris is good, but I don’t know if I would recommend it to a Sanderson virgin.
I’m doing the same cause I hate missing references/connections that might be made to prior books I haven’t read. Just finished alloy of law in a week after it took me a good 6 months to finish way of kings! Stick with it I think it’s a great way to read his stuff
I started with Mistborn 10 years ago, read it in my first language, and right now Im reading it for the fifth time because once in a while I feel the urge of living the story one more time. Mistborn has a special place in my heart 🫶🏼 Thank you Brandon Sanderson for your amazing work.
I'm so glad The Emperor's Soul was mentioned. It wasn't my first of his works, but I think it is the most concise and poignant showcase of Sanderson's style. The characters' inner worlds, the magic system, and the plot all push and pull on one another in meaningful, believable ways in his stories, and The Emperor's Soul condenses this all into a small, powerful, and emotional package.
The only thing it's missing is an otherworldly weather phenomenon, but maybe that's what happens when most of it takes place in a single room.
The Emporer's Soul is still my favorite of his. I haven't read any secret projects yet, though, so we'll see if Tress can top it.
Elantris was my favorite novel of his (before Tress), but I still haven't read Emperor's Soul (even though it's set in the same planet).. maybe I should.
It's short but nice.
I started with way of kings and it is probs 1 of my greatest joys to read. It got me back into reading and thank you for writing that great book
The same for me.
same journey!
Same here!
Same! After that I read all his other books because I wanted to know everything I could about the cosmere.
Way of Kings got me back into reading too about a half a year ago. Easily my favorite book and series.
I started from the Way of Kings, and while it remains my favorite series I don’t typically suggest people start there unless they’re ready for the long haul. I like recommending Elantris to people since it’s Sanderson’s first published book, but I view Mistborn as the best starting point of any of them. I believe Steelheart is another excellent starting point as well.
I also recommend either Elantris or Warbreaker as a starting point for his works. While I love the Stormlight Archive novels, they are long and intense and not for everyone.
I'd recommend Stormlight for people who are used to reading high fantasy with massive books and slower beginnings (something like Robin Hobb or The Wheel of Time), otherwise definitely not
@@SilverstreamPJ28 I typically hype those people up on the Stormlight archive, then tell them to read Warbreaker as homework before starting. It’s really funny.
A few months ago i started my Cosmere journey with Warbreaker. now i was never really much of a reader but somehow i finished it in only 3 nights and i loved it! Even now some moments of that book still stick with me. Got the way of kings right after finishing warbreaker and i can already tell i am in for a treat! Thank you, Brandon for all your hard work!
I’m jealous of you I wish I could read The Way of Kings for the first time again. Stormlight Archive is a series that so far just keeps ramping up and getting better with each addition to the series
I wasn't sure how I felt about Way of Kings (and Stormlight) till the very end of the book, but Words of Radiance is spectacular. Definitely read at least the first two!
i had the same exact experience just a few months ago too lol, starting with warbreaker and followed with way of kings right after- i loved warbreaker sm and the emotional payoff and satisfaction is only amplified in the stormlight archives honestly, so you're def in for a treat, enjoy!
Warbreaker is one of my favorites! My first was Elantris. I loved the characters, the pacing, and that it was a completed story. The world building and magic system was so cool (also horrifying for a bit). His short(er) works are a good glimpse into the worldbuilding he can do.
Continuing collaboration with Graphic Audio is an absolute delight! Their unique style truly breathes life into your books, creating an immersive experience that I thoroughly enjoy.
I discovered Brandon's work through them and I love their adaptation of his work. Nothing else comes close!
@@alassesinda I have listened to ALL of the cosmere in audiobook format multiple times. I go for the ones read by Michael Kramer first, but if he isn't available for a given book, I go for the graphic audio ones. I think they are pretty good too.
I started with Way of Kings, absolutely no regrets. Barely knew anything about it but I wanted a good fantasy book that is as long as possible. I had a job that allowed me to spend 4+h a day listening to audiobooks/music while I worked and I only got one free book a month with the audible subscription, so I needed to make it count. Was absolutely loving it after a bit of a slow start and was thrilled to find out, that there are multiple equally long books to follow WoK
Had the same experience in the same timeframe recently. Bridge Four *salute*
Emperor's soul is actually my first recommendation to people if I'm unsure they'd be willing to commit to The Final Empire or The Way of Kings. It's a perfect little microcosm of everything I love about Brandon's work wrapped up in an amazing short story that's easy for people to pick up and test the waters with low commitment.
yeah that's how i feel about warbreaker too, bc though it's not short it's a standalone rn and it gives a great feel of his worldbuilding, magic systems, and writing. i remember being particularly interested in starting with it bc the recommendation i saw said it would give an example of his endings without starting a whole series, much less an unfinished one, and it def paid off and made me more excited to know the rest likely wouldn't disappoint. haven't read emperor's soul yet, but will keep it in mind as another starting point now too, so thanks :)
I always recommend Emperors Soul, which remains my favorite of Brandon’s standalone works. Though Tress has nearly matched it.
Really? I just began exploring Sanderson's works, and I started with Elantris, and in my opinion, it's masterfully written. I'll have to try your recommendation afterward to see for myself.
Just picked up Way of Kings, it's phenomenal.
I just jumped in with Way of Kings.
Amazing.
I usually tell people to read chapters from Dawnshard and Towers of Midnight back and forth to get a good introduction.
I started with Way of Kings not knowing ANYTHING about Brandon Sanderson back when they used to do "free ebook" promotions. I started reading it on a plane trip to a conference and ended up not getting any sleep that whole weekend because I was busy devouring the book every second I had away from my conference ^.^'
I heard much praise for Sanderson,so i picked up Way of Kings at the library and wasn't disappointed a great story well told.
I’ve told multiple people to start with Mistborn and they all go from there and have liked it. Generally think it’s the best of all the options above
I would like to suggest Warbreaker as a great starting point as well. It’s a stand alone novel that does a great job of getting rasters in to a new magic system and it leads in to the stormlight archives. My book club started there and it was great
I often recommend The Emperors Soul as a good place to start for folks not familiar with your writing! :-) I'm happy to see you feel the same way.
I started with Mistborn and agree, it’s an excellent starting point in Brandon’s worlds. After finishing the second Mistborn book, Well of Ascension, I plunged headfirst into the Way of Kings and have been hooked ever since. Can’t wait for the fifth book later this year, I’ve already read the other four twice.
School made me hate reading so much. After Game of Thrones show I started watching UA-camrs who were readers and realized that I liked fiction way more than I thought. I saw your lectures about writing fantasy and sci-fi (2020) and started writing my own stories but since I didn't read fiction before it was a bit hard and decided to give one of your books a go. I am half way through the first book of Mistborn and O, my Lord Ruler, I am HOOKED ;D
I started with the way of kings so so so good Roshar is such a unique cool world best of wishes for your 2024 Mr Sanderson
I started with the stormlight archive the spring of 2023, other than the secret project four in 8 months I have read every single cosmere book and story, I think it's an amazing place to start
This is an important place to start. I think making comparisons to other books is also incredibly useful. Most people would probably be intimidated by your description of TWoK, but when you bring up that its "like" GoT, then you start catching peoples eyes. Comparisons help a lot.
I would recommend starting with either Stormlight Archive or Mistborn. I started with Stormlight Archive and then Mistborn.
I started with Way Of Kings and wouldn't change it!
My journey with the Cosmere started with the Stormlight Archive. I read all of the current books (Up to Rhythm of War) before reading any of the other books. Now (having read all of the current Cosmere books and novellas up to January 2024) I would absolutely recommend starting with the Stormlight series because you get to understand all the concepts of the Cosmere through the lense of an EPIC story. All of those elements revealed in such an interesting world really is such a unique reading journey! The downside is that earlier series don’t have as much of a “Wow factor.” But the whole universe he has built is worth your time!
I started with Elantris followed by The Hope of Elantris. Now I am reading The Emperor's Soul. I think after that I am going to read Warbreaker and/or Tress of the Emerald Sea, before moving on to the first 3 books of the Mistborn Saga. After that I might finally start with the Stormlight Archives.
Also, if Elantris is supposed to be Brandon Sanderon's "worst" book, then I am in for a ride :)
Started with Tress actually, at the start of last year! Since, have read every published book/novella in the Cosmere and Skyward! It was such a fun year for me :)
I started with Elantris. My linguistics professor mentioned it in class (I feel like there was a specific reason, now forgotten) and a year or so later, I decided to read it in a post-finals week haze. My roommate and I dueled till about 3 in the morning reading it. I finished first, my eyes burning--despite my slower reading pace. Core memory.
I like recommending standalones and completed series best.
Absolutely hooked when I started reading Brandon Sanderson! You have become one of my favorite authors.
I just finished Mistborn as my first book of Sanderson, and it really got me back into reading! I will definitely continue through the other Cosmere novels after I finish the trilogy. This was a great step into the universe and can't wait to start linking connections with the others. I like that there are a lot of Cosmere reading order lists to help out new readers!
My 10 year old and I have pushed Tress into my wife’s hands as a first Cosmere book. Our daughter has finished every Cosmere book aside from Warbreaker. She finished everything at least 3-4 times, and I’ve been trying to convince my wife to read it to understand what our kid is reading. I’ve been encouraging it as long as our kid can talk at least reasonably intelligently about them, but my wife is just starting to read fantasy books in general. We tried pushing Mistborn on the wife, but it got nowhere. Tress is fun, light hearted, and a shorter commitment.
Aside from my personal enjoyment of the Cosmere, your books have pushed my kid to continue chasing more and more interesting books outside the kids section. Thank you, and I hope our other kids find the same enjoyment in them when they get older .
I think Yumi should get an honorable mention. The Sanderlanche is a little more clear in case you missed anything, like Tress, yet more substantial. And like Tress, it's centered around romance, adventure, and action.
However, it's got a lot of Cosmere references that may come off as magitechnobabble, yet reveal themselves to be actual cohesive lore.
One thing I appreciated about starting with Mistborn is that it was a nice transition from YA fantasy to adult fantasy. From my own personal experience, I had read a few adult fantasy books but it was Mistborn that still felt like the YA fantasy books I was reading at the time while also having more adult characters, dealing with different themes, etc.
I think the best place to start reading Brandon's work is A Memory of Light.
Mistborn books are easy to get into. Way of Kings felt like it was a cliff wall to get over. But worth it .
Cant believe Mistborn is that old. Thats where I started and the one I recommend first
I started with elantris before I knew who Brandon was. Then I tried way of kings but it was too hard for my dyslexia and I couldn't follow it. Then I tried again with stormlight and really took my time and I fell in love. I tried mistborne one but couldn't follow it. Stormlight is my favorite; I love the audiobooks!
I was going to suggest the audio versions for stormlight, the narrators are fantastic!
I’m trying to remember if I started the Cosmere with Elantris or Mistborn. I want to lean toward and say it was Mistborn. I know The Way of Kings was one of the later reads. I usually recommend if people want to get into the Cosmere they start with Mistborn. But now that the Secret Projects are out Tress is also a big contender.
Ah, Tress is a new favourite book for me now. Love the whimsical and fairytale vibes!!!
Mistborn and Stormlight Archives are of course old favourites; SA has to be one of the most epic books that I've ever read!!
I started with Stormlight, and I think the only reason I was able to handle it was because I’d read Wheel of Time. Otherwise, idk if I’d ever have finished it or made it past the first book. All the books are amazing. Would recommend all of them.
I started with storm light archive the way of kings I’m reading them again since I haven’t read them in a couple years and I’m just getting back into reading. I have to finish the series but I’m the type that likes to reread from the beginning just for refreshers.
Ever since I read Tress it's become my go-to recommendation for people who want to get into the Cosmere. I've heard some people say it's a little bit different from the rest of your stuff, which is fair, but I think it does a really good job of telling you what to pay attention to in other Cosmere stories.
The Emperor's Soul is a true masterpiece.
I never heard of Brandon Sanderson until I picked up The Way of Kings. I suggest just jumping into the deep end.
Dear Brandon i started with the storytelling class, then the podcast than soon will have a name and the Elantris because i like dark souls c:
Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell is also excellent.
This is weird for me (since I almost always read books in publication order), but I started with WoK. Then read Mistborn. And just finally read Elantris and I absolutely loved Elantris.
I started with Mistborn era 1 and for me personally I think it was the best place for me to start! I love binge reading series
Just finished Mistborn and moved into Elantris. I really want to get into the way of kings but I’m also trying to keep Mistborn mostly fresh in my mind so might do era 2 next
so many books
you can never go wrong with mistborn
Where do I go after Tress? I absolutely loved it!
I started with Mistborn, now the only book left is The Rithmatist. Not gonna say how many rereads I've done throughout the years ;)
I just recently started my journey through the Cosmere with Mistborn. I devoured the era 1 trilogy and moved onto Warbreaker, which I loved and got through quickly too. I’m 20% into way of kings now and so glad I went in the order I did because I TRUST this man with my life. It has made that beginning bit where you haven’t a clue wtf is going on much easier because I know it’ll all make sense soon enough.
Both Tress and Yumi are great starting places and have brought in a lot of new readers. Yes there are Easter Eggs, but if you haven't read anything else, you'll not notice nor be confused
I think Yumi’s story works a lot better if someone has read at the very least Warbreaker, as what’s going on already needs a clunky explanation that I worry would be overwhelming without at least some understanding of certain Cosmere mechanics. Though if a friend or loved one is on hand who understands a bit about the mechanics of what’s going on, I agree it’s a great book to hand someone
Nah Yuri confused me cause I didn’t know what was going on with narration
I agree with Brandon. Tress was my first BS book and I absolutely love it
I really hated Tress as my first exposure to Hoid. Surprise! A god level character was hanging out in the background all along!
@@Florkl I think without cosmere knowledge, it's just "wibley-wobbly, timey whimey" non-answers to some of the world building, but it's still a fun story that can stand on its own. You just have to go along with it rather than focusing on "what does that word mean?!"
I love how all Brandon's book lengths are rough divided in powers of 2. 2 novellas = standard novel. 2 standard novels = longer novel, 2 longer novels = SA novel
Look, Way of Kings said book 1. So that's where I started. I just made it to the first interlude.
Way of kings and the whole stormlight is where I started, and I've never looked back. Oathbringer is my favorite book of all time.
Starting with Stormlight is the way to go
Introduced to Brandon Sanderson's books near the end of last year.
Finished Mistborn Era 1, Elantris and Warbreaker and most recently The Way of Kings. Every single one was awesome.
Goal is to read at the minimum all of Cosmere books before Dragonsteel 2024, and hopefully catch up on Cytoverse books too...a long way to go!
Answered my question perfectly!
I saw Mistborn (Final Empire) on the New Books shelf at my local library - early 2007? pub date was 2006 - and have been a "Sander-fan" ever since. I agree 100% with all of Brandon's recommendations: all excellent places to start. Thanks for this video! A convenient way for us to help friends choose how to join the fun.😀
Someday Brandon will have to add to every hook (I recommend you to read this books before this), because the latest Cosmere Novels need some extra context to be understanded.
Cant go wrong starting anywhere just dive in & enjoy !
This is list is exactly what and how I've been suggesting to new readers! However I am surprised he does not mention that Skyward is a separate universe to all the others. Some people are explicitly interested in knowing there's a larger overall connection between books, and that is what got them started.
I actually started with Elantris (which admittedly is probably not the best for many casual readers), but I thoroughly enjoyed it. That was also back when we found out Brandon was going to finish WoT so I needed a sense of who was taking over my favorite book series. Zero regrets on either decision! lol
idk i just love this guy
My introduction to Brandon sanderson was I started dating a guy and he and I started listening to "Way of Kings" on some of our dates. By time we finished the book, he proposed, we got married, and moved across the country together. And yes, we now have an entire column dedicated to Brandon Sanderson books in our budget.
My friend and I have agreed on Emperor's Soul for simple and Warbreaker for longer
Dear Brandon I have a serious problem, I have already read all these books and novellas. Please do one where you recommend other writers' books.
I started with stormlight archives i'm in fourt book now its my luck or not you just finished fifth book😂and i cant wait for this one
Nice! Very helpful for new readers
I love you, Brandon
Mistborn era 1, then IMMEDIATELY ON TO Mistborn: secret history
After that, idk stormlight or warbreaker.
Mistborn era 2 is so different from era 1 that i think a break is a good idea.
Oh thank the Stormfather, now we have a up-to-date video we can link in every "GUYS WHER DO I START WITH SANDERSON" post on the subreddit.
After the mistborn trilogy, should I start the Wax and Wayne series or the Stormlight Archive?
I most often recommend Mistborn as an entry point for people. If it's someone who doesn't want to invest in a trilogy yet or is intimidated by the size I've actually recommended Warbreaker a few times and it's been a great way to hook those people to the cosmere.
I had not read fantasy books in years and wanted to get back into reading, especially fantasy... So I did the psychopath approch of reading The Way Of Kings, followed by Warbreaker, then Mistborn, and coming back to Stormlight and working my way through this, that, and more. Oh! And in between, started reading the Wheel Of Time. I think I'm broken or something... Enjoying it though ;)
To any new reader who might be seeing this. While I understand all the recommendations and agree with most of them, if you are at all concerned with spoilers please do not start with Tress of the Emerald Sea. While it is an amazing book and one of my recent favorites, it is set in the FAR future of the Cosmere and has certain small hints at spoilers for other books that if you catch onto, will lessen the impact of them in the original books which in my opinion would be a loss. Its better to RAFO.
If you want a standalone cosmere book I'd read either Warbreaker or Elantris. Otherwise follow the above recommendations
1:27 sorry, is that Whimsy with a capital W? is Whimsy influencing Lumar?
Please finish stormlight first🙏
Were all of these Cosmere books?
Elantris. Go chronological. See the change happening.
Brandon te quiero más que a mi vieja
I read Mistborn then Elantris.
I like to know the chronological line of the Cosmere...an official line please
The best place to start reading Sanderson books is standing next to the nearest dumpster fire skimming the titles as you throw them in. He's an awesome lecturer though and perfect proof that those who can't do should stick to teaching 😁🤣😂
Mistborn is 20 years old? How did that happen?
Gotta be honest, I'm still just gonna recommend Mistborn to people. 😄
i am first to read your book can i start with the way of kings
I actually started with The Way of Kings. A few years ago I honestly had never heard of you. I've been going to my local library for years and the librarian knows exactly what I love to read though, and recommends new ones to me all the time. One day she pulled that one down for me, and since then you have legitimately become my favorite author. So much so, that your books are the first that I want to actually own instead of just borrowing. I'm slowly getting there. I plan to eventually get every one. The only series I've read not part of the Cosmere is the Reckoners, and I enjoyed those quite a bit too. There's an energy to your writing that I love. You have such amazing detailed worlds, but you never drown us in them, just let it all take shape naturally while moving the story forward. Thank you for being such an amazing storyteller.
Adoooonalsium
BRANNNDOOOOONALSIUM LIVES
Started the way of kings last week, I just finished part 2 and is being one of the best experiences in my life
Bridge Four!
Bridge Four.
Bridge Four!!
life b4 death.
Bro. You have no idea.
I only started your work in 2023 and can't believe I waited this long, binged all of mistborn era 1 and 2, then a bunch of standalones, then stormlight archives. What a great ride. Thank you for the worlds you create.
I started with Mistborn a few years ago and I immediatly got hooked and binged all 3 books. Then I went to Elantris and I absolutely loved this one, I really look forward to coming back to Sel at some point. Unsurprisingly Stormlight Archive was next and The Way of Kings cemented you as the best Fantasy Author in my mind. Since then I have read all of the cosmere and its insane how constantly great these books are for the speed at wich you are writing them.
I am currently going through Wheel of Time, largely because I found out you took over the series after RJ died. I look forward to going back through all of Stormlight again before the next book drops this year.
The Wheel of Time is my personal favorite book series, and Brandon Sanderson did very well with helping finish it for RJ, I was very happy with how the series ended
Brandon says that, starting next year, he plans on writing the two Elantris sequels and the three books in the third Mistborn series.
My first book by Brandon Sanderson was Tress of the Emerald Sea, and it had me utterly enchanted. I read it a few months ago, and I've already done a re-read 😂 I'm so excited to read more of his books!!
Many years ago I emailed Brandon and said that if he managed to finish Wheel Of Time successfully (I was heavily invested in those books), I would try one of his other books. He was kind enough to reply and he also completed WoT in a very satisfactory manner.
So, I picked up Mistborn and began reading. I got thru about 2/3 of it before stopping. It felt heavy and more political than anything and I was done. I honestly didn't connect with any of the characters.
However, I still haven't completed my end of the deal, so I think I will try Tress of the Emerald Sea, which I'd never heard of until this video.
And here am I who started with Children of the Nameless.
I hear quite a while ago that Wizards of the Coast removed it, so you can't access it legitimately any more, and on a quick search, I did not find. But hopefully I'm wrong about that.
(edit: yes, I know that is not "starting with Brandon" per se, but it was what introduced the author to me)
lmao i saw all the books and got so confused and wished someone had categorised them or something! thank you for this video
I love this kind of video. When sp1 came out, I wouldn't stop talking about it. After my 3rd reread, one of my friends was intrigued and listened to the audio book on Spotify, and they absolutely devoured that book. I think it's a great starting point for the whimsy craving readers.