I really love it when anyone has the maturity to learn more about something before passing judgement and to admit their opinion has changed (especially literature). I know you spoke about how much you are struggling with your mental health, but being able to keep your mind open and engage with new perspectives takes strength. Really hope you feel well again soon, Willow. 😘

i agree with what most of the comments are saying, and i wanted to add that sanderson also supports israhell and has said very controversial things about “the conflict” (lmao). i was a big fan of his and i’d read almost all his books before i found out. as a queer, pro-palestine person, i don’t feel comfortable supporting his work (knowing what “inspired” stormlight) financially, nor engaging with it at all

Christianity is provably evil. It is actually right there in The Gospels.

Do you consider the Poppy War to be horror?

Just saying hello. This is the first time I've watched your videos. I often find KZbin videos inaccessible but your clear level speech I can understand easily. I have mental health conditions too. Susannah Clark is one of my heroines. She has chronic fatigue. Best wishes. I find your self- reflection helpful, as someone who was a neglected child. I'm learning to self-parent in my 40s...

I've avoided Sanderson since he was at best a useful idiot for some nasty actors at the Hugos some years ago (Sad Puppies, Rabid Puppies, and slating would be good keywords to search for if you're not immediately familiar with the incident). I did get one of his books (Tress of the Emerald Sea) from the library last year, and I'm also not sure his style is for me, though Tress herself was a fine character and I liked her quite a bit.

If you want a bad Mormon sci-fi author just look at Orson Scott Card. Bad personally that is The dick can write annoyingly.

You are positively adorable. Thank you for being so thoughtful and willing to change your mind! I have my reservations with Mormonism, but I agree with what you expressed about how we should judge a person/author based on their work and thoughts, not their affiliations. My faith is often judged harshly in my industry, and I wish more people are as thoughtful as you are 😊 Also, every firsthand account I have heard of Brandon is positive and that he is a genuinely kind person as well.

Thank you so much for your wonderful explanation of the book . I was going to give up as I only read four chapters and found it hard to get into but I'm going to persevere and carry on with the story. Sci fi is not usually what I read but I wanted to explore other genre and expand my knowledge. Thank you again for sharing your passion .

Great! I guess it's fine that Brando Sando gives 10% of his significant income to a Church that promotes conversion therapy and majorly supported Prop 8 (which means through his church he financially supported it too)! It's fine that his church used to preach that black people were cursed by God! It's fine cuz he's such a nice guy and he's gonna put some token gay characters into his books! genuinely though i'll echo what others have said about getting his books from the library so you're not giving money to LDS. i do think people are too quick to give him a free pass just because he's not spewing bigoted sh!t like orson scott card. Sanderson is succeeding in having his cake and eating it too. He enjoys all the connections and support from LDS while distancing himself from unsavoury aspects of the church. as a Muslim there are many aspects of my religion that i don't agree with. but no Muslim is required to tithe 10% of their income to a racist organization that actively harms queer people. and that is my main problem with Sanderson and his defenders.

THE POPPY WAR<3333333

I’ve just finished it. It was “ok”, 3/5 stars. I got the satirical aspect and similarities to “Heathers” and “The secret history”, but… I don’t know. It’s not outstanding to me.

I'm glad you seem to be enjoying this new fantasy jump! Unfortunately, Sanderson's writing style is a little too simple for my tastes. Not in a bad way, I mean as opposed to a more multilayered literary style. It leaves his books at about a 3-3.5 out of 5 for me; fun, but it makes it hard to want to plow through all of them when there's so many! I did notice you said Mistborn was his first fantasy novel, though, and actually I believe that was Elantris. I mention this because my understanding is people recommend reading that one early on since, of course, his writing improves as he goes so it can be difficult to go back later. Looks like plenty of people are discussing the whole LDS thing and paradox of tolerance thing. I will say that for me, Sanderson is a library-or-used-books-only author, but there are so many worse people to read. I still remember being burned in middle school by finding out how terrible Orson Scott Card (also a Mormon, actually) is re: his opinions on LGBTQ people.

He's my fav author. I'm an optimistic nihilist, or absurdist, or atheist- point is, religions ain't my cup of tea. I do think Morminism is a creepy af cult well deserving of condemnation. Still, I VERY much enjoy Brando's classes (his youtube lectures and Writing Excuses podcast) as well as his chatting podcast as well as attending his convention. For me, nothing in this world is straightforward. The fact is, the guy tells heartfelt stories with clear endearing morals that I respect, and I LOVE his work. We're all human and we just got to get through the day. Personally I seek to enjoy more than hate or judge, not because I think I'm better than anyone else but because I'm tired 😅 theres a lot to care about in this chaotic world and for me him being Mormon ain't the hill to die on.

Can tell you’re not versed in religion because you called the Mormons “evangelical”

By purchasing and supporting his books, you are indirectly funneling money into the LDS church (remember, tithing 10% of their personal income is mandatory) and thus the missionary work, the anti-LGBT political lobbying, the abuse cover ups, etc etc. If we're not playing the Wizard game or going to certain areas of Universal Studios because that money gets indirectly funneled into anti-trans groups... we can't give Sanderson a pass either.

funny you're making this just when so many people are disappointed with him and his new book. I read mistborn and honestly don't think I can ever read more than 300 pages of him, much less a big series. His classes were great, as you said. I respect him as an author more than I like his books

Sorry, I couldn’t reach the actual review because I had to pause and digest you calling yourself equally bigoted for assuming the worst out of a man you don’t know beyond his church having racist/sexist/homophobic ideologies and aren’t shy about it, and that someone makes you just as bad as racism/sexism/homophobia. You can’t judge someone by their faith but when that faith DEMANDS you donate 10% OF your income (before tax) that’s contributing to funding more missionary work that deeply upset you in the first place. I respect the man for not having the same ideals as his church and writing so many diverse characters and respecting different cultural believes and religious faiths that go against his, but I question how successful the “change from within” strategy actually works. But…if anyone is going to draw a line in the sand then that means also drawing that same line every time you pick up a random brand item in your local supermarket. And in this modern age where there is no ethical consumption under capitalism? Yeah, there are worse ethical choices you can make than this. So you might as well.

I'm glad the algorithm brought to you! I am also a big fan of Eric LaRocca, and I've enjoyed your clap backs in the comments. Frickin slaps. Subbed ❤🎉

I have done my own brain in over the last year on a book diet of ťhrillers and domestic Noir because there's a lot of friendless loner types with twisted minds in those books I felt sad about. I'm housebound with bowel incontinence and as such rarely see anyone except my partner and neither of us has close family and I kept feeling upset at the way writers turn isolated people into evil characters. It's unfair. And scares me. If something happens to my partner those books were making me feel like I'd lose my mind and turn evil when I'm alone. I'd rather read less dark literature and for authors to stop portraying loners, disabled people, people who are not beautiful, people who might have an ASD, people who are disfigured, people who are gay or trans, people who are poor, sick or addicts, people with mental health problems into the monsters they are not in real life. Real life serial killers are often more like Ted Bundy with loads of friends and family than the isolated hunchbacks of Notre Dame. Anyway I'm happy to try anything Willow reviews. Some reviews have me almost peeing with laughter (Fourth Wing) and I'm here for love of any books and to listen to Willow. I've been watching Willow since before she came out as trans and she's always been consistent and given me a clear idea of what I might like. I had a break from Bao & Books when my eyes started failing, came back when I'd adjusted to audiobooks and learned there'd been some changes and just thought cool, let's get right back into whatever she's recommending. I'm happy for your variety Willow. I'd love to hear more reviews of audiobooks with excellent narration.

I understand people who born were into a high-demand/high control groups, as I was born in member of the other group you mentioned. I had to fill out a timesheet detailing my proselytizing efforts every month. Not performing the monthly demands come a cost. Shy? Introverted? Tired? Severe social anxiety? There were no excuses. And of course, walking away from such a group comes at a cost--in the case of the high demand I was in, of losing everyone. Therefore I do give Brandson Sanderson a pass. Unlike the JWs, who've a firm top-down authoritarian leadership expelling and shunning those with the least bit of dissent, modern LDS have evolved to have progressive members. He hopes to change the problematic aspects from the inside. I'm not sure it's possible, but I wish him luck.

Brandon does have a handful of solid books, but he has a bunch of mid ones as well. I still think Shadows for Silence In the Forests of Hell and Emperor's Soul are his strongest

If you want to read his books, I would buy them used or check them out of the library.

I am a gay man who grew up Mormon. I even served a 2-year mission myself. I didn’t really want to, but felt like it was required of me to do so. Having left that all behind- some of Sanderson’s stories have actually been what has helped me do some of the most healing from my religious trauma. Sanderson has written some incredible characters who confront having their entire belief systems falling apart. One of his most recent books involves a character being raised in a religious environment and being manipulated and forced into doing what they wanted him to do. The character has to confront this and learn to think for themselves. I don’t know how Sanderson himself feels about the church at this point. But I know he has masterfully written about the pain of losing belief and he works to provide representation in his stories. I don’t love the church, but I’m deeply grateful for what I have felt from some of Sanderson’s stories.

Great video! Sanderson is possibly my favourite author working today, really appreciated your nuanced take 💙

I read it. It was okay. The pacing was a bit weird and the characters were introduced with a lot of stereotypical tropes. I think the second book was better. The final book was a SLOG. I didn’t like Rin after the end of the first book and she became much of an unreliable narrator. The other main characters were why I stuck it out.

Oh my gosh! YES!!! 1000%! I had EXACTLY the same response. I'm literally at the 30% mark and was contemplating dnfing this book! I looked up videos to try to decide if I'm going to dnf. I thought the first part of the book was incredible (until she went to the Fae realm). I was also laughing out loud so hard when you were describing how she gave up everything about her that made her interesting to go with the dark fae guy. This is just a fantastic analysis. Also, the Cliff Notes comment you made had me cackling!!! Love this video. Thanks for sharing.

I read the Ember Blade books this year. They are fantasy but they talk about genocide and apartheid. I think the way fantasy centers love and companionship is essential to approaching these horrific themes. I also agree with @tinahatch7440 and @womenwotreads. I think that the channel changes won't be a big deal because your p.o.v. is what I most enjoy. No matter what the subject is.

my english is b2 can i read them?

Im going to take my copy of Heart of Darkness and American Tabloid elsewhere then

I am a mood reader and a mood writer. The latter is a real disadvantage because everybody wants you to stick to a genre if you want to be successful

I'm currently reading the 3rd book of the Mistborn trilogy. I've also read Tress of the Emerald Sea and The Emperor's Soul, both by Brandon Sanderson. I'm planning to read The Stormlight Archive after Mistborn, while also reading standalone books such as Warbreaker or Elantris.

A year or two ago, the organization was also sponsoring the racially-inclusive Superbowl ads for supposedly friendly Bible studies that funnelled people into CONVERSION THERAPY!

I’m a big Brando Sando fan. I watch his weekly podcast, have read all his books apart from the middle grade and can confirm he is a great storyteller and good person. Since following him I’ve seen him take in criticism from his audience and grow tremendously in being accepting of the LGBTQIA community. In a recorded Q&A a fan asked Sanderson if he could include more LGBTQIA representation, to which he responded Yes we’re doing our best (foreshadowing for what’s to come in upcoming books) I haven’t read Wind & Truth (#5 of Stormlight) I’ve heard there’s LGBTQIA rep so woohooo SCORE ONE FOR THE GAYS 🎉🎉🎉

I learned who Sanderson was way back when he was tapped to finish the Wheel of Time series. I followed his progress bars through the re-reads and through the completion of each book. Back then I had no idea he was LDS, and I didn’t care. All these years later, I have read the Mistborn series and I’ve just started book 3 of Stormlight Archive. I can’t judge his personal life, frankly I don’t know him as a person. But these books make me feel something wonderful. I highly recommend Tress of the Emerald Sea.

I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on the entire first Mistborn trilogy!

Sorry, Willow, i have to stop at 7:35. Even if someone is "nice" to my face, if they intentionally fund and support seriously harmful and powerful organizations, I walk away. Eight years later, a former friend of my queer sibling still doesn't understand - even after my sibling explicitly and simply explained it to her - why her continued support and stanning of Trump ended their years-long friendship. "You shouldn't end a friendship over something as silly as politics," she says. But it's literal life and death for us. Edit for clarity: I'll still be here for your videos on other subjects. ✌️💖

I always envy people who have not read Mistborn yet…❤

Sanderson is a good person despite his membership in the LDS church. I'm not exactly sure how he squares their dogmas with his attitudes, but I'm thankful that he does. He has done a great job with queer representation and feminism in many of his books. There's definitely the fear that he'll end up like Orson Scott Card with the problematic viewpoints due to his faith, but so far he's not gone that route.

This is the first video I've seen from your channel and I've just subscribed. Thank you for your honesty. I understand where you are coming from. Things (personally and geopolitically) are really difficult right now and I have just struggled through A Little Life and swore I wouldn't do that to myself again. I would love to hear your sci-fi recommendations as I feel intimidated by it and don't know where to start (although I did read The Passion of New Eve a few years ago and LOVED it).

Review over Your Review: Beautilfully interprated, with passion over both Emily Brontë's wrting and gothic writing. You say Your´re not an accademic; But I can easily say that Your résume is great in the sense that it provoke dramtical reading, inspires and wakes up feelings: That´s exactly what writers / authors dream of. I would seroiusly recommend You to continue and become a litterature teacher

I would ask how this applies to Orson Scott Card, who has said some objectively hateful things about the LGBTQ community and doubled down when confronted about it. He's also a simping conservative and I choose to give them as little of my time, money and attention as possible in the creative sphere. Now, in knock-down, drag-out fights online, it's on. But the movement here in the US is dangerous to the entire planet and just like Joanne, I refuse to actively support hateful belief systems in any way I can. But since there doesn't seem to be any such detritus following Sanderson around, and since I watched some of his classes online and genuinely liked his teaching style, I won't let his religious affiliation stop me from enjoying his work. He's found that balance and I appreciate that, even as an atheist who left Christianity after first-hand experience with its toxicity.

This video is a good life lesson in general. You should always judge the actual person who they show themselves to be.

Sanderson is a complete hack writer. And worse still, the moron acts like he's paid by the word and writes bloated turgid rivers of text. The real tragedy are the trees cut down for this. Toilet paper would be a better use.

I have a great friend who is LDS. She is always kind to me personally. She even convinced me to go to her church once, and it was an interesting experience, and everyone there was very nice. But behind the smiles was always that sales pitch, though they would deny such a thing, "No, we respect everyone's beliefs, really". The thing about this friend of mine--- her being a staunch Trumper strained our relationship when I saw different sides to her, and she spouts the same nonsense other LDS members I have known do--- "We love gay people, we do, we love and accept them, and welcome them--- so long as they don't act on their sinful desires that we admit they can't control! As long as they're celibate, they're welcome... oh, and sorry about all the Aversion Therapy at BYU in the 1970s, and all the 'Reparative Therapy' we practiced until 2000 to get the gay out of you!" I can't support Sanderson in the same way I can't support Rowling. He gives money, 10% of his considerable earnings, to his church. A church that literally cut the mic of a lesbian teenager giving testimony. I don't think it's bigoted to withhold support from someone who helps fund an organization that actively recruits members to restrict a woman's bodily autonomy--- just ask one of their elders about the church and Roe v. Wade--- and indoctrinates their children that they are preaching love while still being exclusionary. Join us--- but only if you're like us. I stopped reading and respecting Rowling not because of her personal beliefs--- but because she used her platform to spread lies and bigotry, and because she uses her money to support anti-trans causes and businesses. Can't do it. I'm sure Sanderson is probably a nice guy--- many of the LDS folks I have met are very nice... until you get them talking about certain topics. But his money talks, and that's too much for me.

As a liberal, an atheist, and a person of color, I cannot get on board with the idea that Brandon Sanderson's missionary work in South Korea was an act of colonialism. LDS missionaries do not have the coercive backing of a colonial metropole to force people to accept their beliefs, and while i cant say that no Mormon missionary has ever used any underhanded tactics to win converts, a 19 year old Mormon missionary in South Korea does not have the kind of power over the citizens of a developed, independent country like South Korea for his activities to amount to colonial exploitation. Moreover, Korea has a long, complex and largely indigenously-driven history with Christianity, and Mormonism in Korea is a small thread in that tapestry. Rather than looking at this with a simplistic heuristic of colonialism, consider researching Korea's history with Christianity. You'll find the picture is fairly unique. Also, I'm not surprised that meeting a Mormon made you reevaluate your feelings. Theres no ideology tgat makes you immune to having strong opinions about a group when you dont actually know people in it.

Boycott religion but support LGBT no questions asked. Hmmm

Just a point of fact, Elantris was Sanderson’s first book.

The thing I appreciate most about Sanderson is that he makes conscious efforts to portray people with vastly different views and life experiences than him, and that to do this he talks very openly about (and credits) sensitivity readers. He's talked before about how he knows he's going to make mistakes when he writes those out-group characters, but his response to making those mistakes and facing criticism has not been to stop writing those types of characters. Instead, his response has been to put in the work to understand where he went wrong and do better the next time, primarily by consulting other people with a better understanding of the ability/race/class/gender/whatever other trait he's writing about and then crediting them for their work. It's very admirable, and the fact that he, as probably the most influential fantasy author currently writing, openly advocates for other authors to use this approach and formally teaches it to aspiring novelists constitutes, I think, significant and genuine allyship.

What if someone’s favourite classic is the count of monte cristo ?