Why You Should Read The Stormlight Archive - By Brandon Sanderson

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In this video, we talk about why you should read Brandon Sanderson's epic, The Stormlight Archive. BS has made huge waves in recent years, but this series seems to be elevated not only above most of the other series within the genre, but Brandon's other works. Lets talk about, THE STORMLIGHT ARCHIVE.
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[@DanielGreeneReviews]

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[@Trisjack20]

@@devinreese7704 I know he is writing something he's mentioned it elsewhere in one of his vids. @Daniel Greene Definitely share it with us when you are ready, you have a captive audience :)

[@chrtravels]

Having never read any of Sanderson yet, what would you start with? Chronological order, Mistborn, Stormlight? I’m nervous to watch the rest of this review without having read anything so will pause it here ;-)

[@Trisjack20]

@@chrtravels Spolier free reply- Each of the series could be read independently and fully enjoyed. I think reading Mistborn (Starting with the Final Empire) and Warbreaker (Currently the only novel set on its world) are best to start with if you intend to dive into the full cosmere. Mistborn is a really good place to start understanding investiture and Brandon's style of magic systems. Warbreaker is particularly good if you want to look at the brader aspects because there are some clues there for Stormlight later. Just so you know some do start with Stormlight but I would only suggest this if you are either a seasoned veteren of fantasy (As Stormlight breaks some of the typical rules of writing so you need to be up for it with plenty of trust in Brandon) or you only intend to read Stormlight (Which is a fine series and does not require any other reading to understand and enjoy).

[@chrtravels]

Trisjack20 thanks much :-). I am a long time fantasy reader and do trust Brandon, as I have read all bit the final book of Wheel of Time. The fact that he was able to do such a fantastic job taking on finishing up such an amazing series, I have really been wanting to see some of his own work. Maybe I’ll try Mistborn and then move onto Stormlight. Thanks again :-)

[@Trisjack20]

@@chrtravels You won't regret it. My pleasure.

[@FVIIFrost]

“Honor is dead. But I'll see what I can do.” (K.O.)

[@Unlitedsoul]

I just read that precise line last night. First time through the first two books, and I just finished the chapter of Adolin's 1 on 4 duel last night. Try sleeping after reading that chapter, and see how successful you are.

[@RP-zt7fz]

If there is ever an adaptation, and if this line isn't included...I start murdering writers

[@Unlitedsoul]

@liorza12345 Kaladin says it about half way through Words of Radiance, just before leaping into a duel arena to try saving a guy he despises at the time, Adolin Kholin and his brother Renarin from a 4-on-1/4-on-2 ambush.

[@i_dont_know_who_i_am69]

One of my favorite one liners

[@SandeepYadavhas]

Best line. Ever..

[@derekdurst9216]

My personal opinion: while Sanderson may not be the “best” author of all time, I feel like he’s the most approachable of the great authors. The main thing I didn’t enjoy of Jordan, Martin, andTolkien was the writing style. The way they wrote made the books seem longer than they were. I still enjoyed LotR and GoT, and loved WoT, but Brandon’s books seem shorter than they are. 1000 pages only feels like 700 because I just fly through the books. People often criticize his “plain” writing style, but I like it. He doesn’t describe every dress or tree, but focuses on the story and characters. This makes the books go faster, imo, so I think it’s more approachable than some other authors.

[@DarckT7]

I get what you mean. Tolkien books are awesome and rewarding when you eventually get through them but holy fuck reading can be such a chore. I've tried rereading the Silmarillion and I keep stopping halfway because it's just super dense. I tried reading ASOIAF and the writing style seems like reading is going to be a lot of work. All these have kinda led me away from fantasy.

[@derekdurst9216]

Darck Clay same. I don’t have the time or patience to really invest a month or more in a book so this has led me to not reading a lot of books that I want to read. I want to read Malazan, but the time people say to put in? Nope!

[@DarckT7]

@@derekdurst9216 audio books my mine. Audiobooks. I could never understand how my mum and later on my boss would listen to audiobooks. As I've gotten older it makes sooooo much sense. During your commute, during your showers (I take like 1hr showers), as you drift off to sleep etc. You'd be surprised how much wasted time you have

[@justdave9610]

He's a master of pacing definitely

[@user-wg7nw3mh2e]

The third book in the Mistborn Series is not very good and Word of Radiance has some definite issues as well. Beyond that Sanderson is not very good a characterization in my opinion. All of his characters are very one or two dimensional as compared characters in say ASOIAF. But I don't think WoT or Lord of the Rings are very good either, so I would agree the Stormlight Archive is better than they are.

[@mikezigi4928]

Never listen to a lighteyes and his lies.

[@KalP224]

Hush, lest you become like that traitor, who's name we do not speak. (unless we really want a riot)

[@jacobthueson32]

Fricking Moash

[@jforozco12]

@@jacobthueson32 im at the part where kaladin is training bridge 4 in the chasm, does moash really betray him?

[@jacobthueson32]

@@jforozco12 RAFO(read and find out). Lol, He does, but he doesn't. It's uh.. interesting.... just keep reading & don't look in the comments of anymore vids talking about the books ;) You will see Spoilers... don't Ruin(ha mistborn) it for yourself, Preserve( ;D ) your mind.

[@Visforelvenshireling]

Mike Zigi Look in the mirror, Shardbearer.

[@AbhishekSubbaiah]

The man's capacity and talent to land that final punch (or rather, flurry of punches) at the end of each book is just staggering.

[@arlopullman6836]

Abhishek Subbaiah long live the Sanderlanch.

[@taylorhauser3347]

Staggering is the correct word.

[@taylorhauser3347]

I almost feel like I'm underwater, fighting to breathe and its exhilarating! He's at his best when the Sanderson avalanche starts rolling

[@afk2514]

I have all the books from mistborn and stormlight but I haven't read them yet because I'm making my way through the Wheel Of Time for the first time. I'm constantly excited to read his works nevertheless. And my TBR list is so long I don't know what I will pick up next.😂

[@carlsmith4568]

Brandon writes his endings first and structures his books around them. That's why they're always so amazing.

[@nickbatt399]

I'm a boxer who writes fantasy. subbed.

[@turtleanton6539]

Loool

[@Southpaw128]

i do both as well haha

[@turtleanton6539]

@@Southpaw128 😂😂

[@turtleanton6539]

What did you write

[@Rexodiak]

@@Southpaw128 yoooo I not only do those two things as well, I'm ALSO a southpaw like you!

[@LiftedStarfish]

I'm less than halfway through The Way of Kings, but with a television or film adaptation, I feel like I would like to see it animated. I think that there's an overwhelming lack of non-edgy, non-comedy, adult oriented western animation, and I think that SLA would be a great candidate for an animated adaptation.

[@akeemalleyne5890]

The Castlevaina animated series proves that adult animated fantasy can be popular, if not mainstream, but that series would be considerd 'edgy' by many.

[@floydroid772]

I felt that way about mistborn as well.

[@gholamdapantaloonsniffer8218]

I'm pretty sure it's in development atm as I saw a IMDB page showing that it's in development ☺️

[@aupatS]

Something looking like Arcane would be cool

[@Bowtiedhillbilly]

Agreed, I really don’t think you could do SLA in live action, just the background world looks so different from ours, but animation would be a great medium.

[@jjr007]

Another thing I like about Brandon Sanderson's works is the humor spread throughout them.

[@lyunardo]

I'm shocked to see someone say this! I love his books, and have read lots of them multiple times. But I've always felt his attempts at humor is his biggest weak point. And his poems and songs are just as bad. Good thing his storytelling is so brilliant!

[@turtleanton6539]

Awesome

[@Caz-op9pi]

“No mating!!!” -Pattern

[@Loomx5]

Shallan asking Adolin how he shits in his armour was phenomenal.

[@jforozco12]

@@lyunardo i love wit in the first book, im currently halfway through

[@melchormendoza]

you didnt mention that his books are interconnected by a another story line altogether. im think this may be the most ambitious "cross over" ever attempted, spanning 7 worlds with 9 different story lines.

[@bruceh9780]

I've mentioned that to people before, and it's not as big a draw as you may think. While the greater Cosmere is an incredible aspect to the various series to me, a lot of people get nervous about it as they think they're obligated to read every one of them to appreciate a single series.

[@fcold9402]

@@bruceh9780 Yeah, but if they did they would have fun ;-). I liked the cosmere because it gave me a direction on more books. I was about lost when I finished the cosmere books. And I didn't think Sandersons superhero book series The Reckoners was as good. I haven't tried most of his YA stuff or infinity Blade. Of course I am an MCU fan and I thought that came together well and came to a satisfactory conclusion (I know they are still going with it, but after the epilogue that will be spiderman homecoming, i think, it will never be the same). I am looking forward to see if Sanderson can pull off something similar.

[@paulreg3122]

melchor mendoza 16 worlds

[@turtleanton6539]

Oh fuck! Just wow!

[@Trisjack20]

@@bruceh9780 That's a really good point. I have at least one guy I recommended read Brandon's stuff and he says he feels like he is missing out on stuff, though he only really wants to read SA.

[@delphynenull2136]

There are two things I know about Stormlight and Brandon’s writing style as a whole: - I do not care about Venli - By the end of Stormlight 4 I am going to be ride-or-die for Venli.

[@jesse5769]

Hahahahaha so true

[@SoowDeJu]

Wait who was Venli again?

[@delphynenull2136]

Juul van Geleuken (spoilers for Oathbringer) Parshendi researcher, then ambassador, and then fledgeling radiant, formed a nahel bond with the lightspren Timbre, sister to Eshonai.

[@SoowDeJu]

@@delphynenull2136 ahhh eshanois sister yes! I remember! Thanks

[@peterparker8462]

Read first part: but... But can you not see the potential, the symb... Second part; I'm a dumbass

[@adityac90]

Well hopefully Brandon Sanderson doesn't bite off Brent Weeks' ear. Just continuing with your analogy.

[@pintpullinggeek]

I was trying to work out who Holyfield would be. I think that is a good pick.

[@dusk1947]

I am the kind of person who reads a work of fiction once and done. Lord of the ring: once. Wheel of time: once. Legens of Drizzt: stopped after book 6. Mistborne: once. I have read this 3 book installment of the stormlight archive three times while I await the 4th book. I adore this series. If you are a fantasy fan: read his work!

[@solitude3512]

Hahaha same for me the only book series ive read more than once is the wheel of time (6 times) and the cosmere (3 times) although I like mistborn part of the cosmere than the SA.

[@shughes5778]

@@solitude3512 I don't like mistborn more per se but I want to read the next book more then with stormlight archives

[@taylorhauser3347]

Dusk! I reread them every time too. I honestly can't get enough of his story development, character development. I've never read a series that makes me feel like I'm reading it the first time (when its not) like Stormlight. I blow through them every time.

[@burge2695]

After i finish the last dark tower book I'm going to re-read the 3 stormlight books before the 4th book comes out..im so excited 😁 (dalinar is my fav btw)

[@kimkosyjana9511]

Just started Oathbringer. I'm only like 120 pages in, but I'm reminded why I love this world and the characters. After i finish stormlight, I'm moving onto Mistborn.

[@joepalkovic]

I'm right there with you, about 275 pages into Oathbringer. I'm not that into fantasy usually, but this series is really really good.

[@thatbadmuthafucka2626]

I'm about in the same spot of Oathbringer as you. One of the things that got me hooked from the first book was Kaladin and how he was unfairly made a part of the Bridge 4 team. But he showed true leadership and made the most of his situation and is now something more. I've read all six of the Mistborn books that have been released so far and really enjoyed them. I will just say that Brandon Sanderson is really good at coming up with magical systems in his stories.

[@TheLordofLemons]

You may want to do a brief reread of Stormlight if you read Mistborn and Warbreaker. It may give you a lot of "Ahhh!" moments, to avoid any spoilers.

[@typhoonzebra]

Reading Stormlight before Mistborn? Wow. I could not have gotten so far into that if I didn't already know how good Sanderson was.

[@ubaldorecanati8190]

@@TheLordofLemons sure!

[@MrValkilmer35]

I just started listening to The Way of Kings and there was the scene of Shallan going to buy history and philosophy books. And the merchant had eyebrows so long he tucked them behind his ears. haha Those little world-building details are why i like fantasy so much--just so other-worldy and interesting. I'm in chapter 7 and think Shallan is my favorite so far.

[@rfg87]

Props to this guy. I never would have thought I'd hear anything boxing related in a booktube video. A man after my own heart

[@TheTWK70]

Brandon Sanderson deserves to be talked about and read and discussed as much as the likes of Tolkien, GRRM and Robert Jordan. He's brilliant, even after reading so many of his books he keeps surprising me with his writing and storytelling. I know this my sound blasphemous to a lot of people but I put Stormlight Archive above LoT and ASOIAF, just in terms of my personal preferences and enjoyment. Stormlight Archive is my favourite series of all time despite we only being 3 books in. And Words of Radiance, the 2nd book, is my favourite book of all time, not just in fantasy, in general, fav book period. It's that good.

[@DarckT7]

What would you recommend as a start.

[@slyf0x183]

@@DarckT7 The Mistborn Trilogy. It does a great job of introducing you to the Cosmere and has a great story and lore.

[@sirgerald6846]

@@slyf0x183 yup

[@ramael3299]

@Dark Clay if jumping into series scare you, you can also start with Elantris standalone, it's a great book and also a good introduction to Brandon's style and creativity. It's a bit simpler, more basic then the series but still a good read, and it's also a part of the Cosmere.

[@Tovinthorn]

Brandon easily trumps most popular fantasy/fiction story-tellers. Let's be honest here. The level of depth, worldbuilding, unique/believable characters, and creativity he fucking just exhumes from his pores is insane.

[@Sup3rNoVa93]

“No mating.” Reason enough.

[@taylorhauser3347]

haha Pattern is lowkey my favorite character

[@kelvinntim5838]

Pattern cucking as always

[@WraithLK]

I am a stick

[@ClimbingThing33]

Stick is the best character

[@myself2noone]

I remember seeing Sanderson say he tried the "grim dark" protagonist once, and it just didn't work. He said it was awful.

[@rjf5790]

That moment when Kaladin spoke of the 2nd Ideal, "I will protect those who cannot protect themselves." Chills...

[@Divinemakyr]

@Haku infinite Honestly, I don't know his Stormlight can keep giving me chills. Kaladin saving Adolin, Kaladin surviving the highstorm, Kaladin saving Elhokar, etc, etc.

[@Spyro5500]

Honor is dead, but I'll see what I can do

[@rymdalkis]

Imagine if Brandon had given in to his parents' demands and become a biochemist

[@reagame8700]

The he would be the greatest biochemist the world has ever seen.

[@taylorhauser3347]

I thought his mom wanted him to be a doctor?

[@taylorhauser3347]

I guess biochemist is pretty close to doctor lol who cares he made the right choice

[@RalphNC09]

I dont think you need to "shake up the genre" in order to make a good book. That's not why we read.

[@Streakingmonk77]

Exactly, I hate the idea that you can't do something great without doing something new.

[@DanielGreeneReviews]

I don’t think I said that you did, and if it seems like I implied that, it certainly was not my intent.

[@Streakingmonk77]

@@DanielGreeneReviews No you didn't say that, I think you more we're addressing the people who would. So I was dropping in my 2 cents of support. I firmly am in the Brandon Sanderson is the GOAT camp.

[@RalphNC09]

@@DanielGreeneReviews at the end of the video, you're saying your only real knock on the series (which I personally believe shouldn't be there in a "why you should read") is that it doesnt do anything new, or risky. Constantly being fresh, or so original isnt needed to be captivated by a book. We read fantasy because we like fantasy stuff, at least I do. The fact that it has all these magics, and creatures, and fictional places help us be more drawn in and escape some of the troubles of reality from time to time. Despite that, if someone does shake it up, I have no problem with it. As long as it keeps the essence of fantasy, so so speak. But to say something is flawed, to criticize it because it doesnt do that, I think that's wrong.

[@eno2870]

What is it that men value most?

[@KneeCole13]

Yessss to the boxing metaphor, it made my day! 😁 but I actually just picked up Way of Kings the other day thanks to your recommendation and I'm loving it so far

[@itamarreina4234]

Commenting on every video untill Greene Daniel is released. video 18

[@PauloAtreides1]

Itamar Reina Brasil?

[@itamarreina4234]

@@PauloAtreides1 Arstotzka

[@rachelsmith7720]

Doing God’s work

[@j0nhurry459]

Thank you for your sacrifice

[@Wildcamfire]

"You canot have my pain" -Dalinar Kholin

[@billmilligan7272]

"I don't want my pain taken away; I NEED my pain!" - James T. Kirk

[@abhiprakash74999]

Damn I loved that line

[@thestairguy]

The moment when Dalinar goes legendary, nice.

[@Trisjack20]

Fantastic moment! Until that moment I really wasn't sure if Brandon was going to have him fall. Talk about tension.

[@Hanzelka5]

I tear up every time I read this shit lol. First time I read it in the book I lost it.

[@Sadiebubs]

I think Brandon Sanderson has amazing world building and magic systems, but him biggest weakness to me, and I feel like this has been more of a thing that I’ve noticed recently, is his attempts at witty back and forth dialogue which honestly just makes me cringe. That being said I think he’s very talented and does great work.

[@EpicTastyPapple]

"When you marooned me in that god forsaken storm, you forgot one very important thing mate..." "..." "I'm Kaladin Stormblessed."

[@Chris-nw2lf]

Christian Billman i dont think thats a quote

[@EpicTastyPapple]

@@Chris-nw2lf Have you seen Pirates of the Carribean?

[@saundramonette4137]

Lol 😂😂

[@Giondi]

Hmm... would that make Sadeas the equivalent of Captain Barbosa? Come to think of it, Geoffrey Rush might actually be pretty good in that role.

[@tylerdurham6091]

@@Giondi eh, i love me some Geoffrey Rush but he's a rather hammy presence and part of what makes Sadeas so awful is that he doesn't broadcast his intents. That's why the first book's end was so gripping, his betrayal felt earned and somehow still out of left field.

[@SerenitySong6]

Just realized I probably shouldn't read the comments. Spoilers!

[@leigh2781]

Stormlight is shaping up to be the best modern fantasy series of all time no doubt, and live the vids

[@cup1966wow]

It's an amazing series. will still have a tough job of beating Malazan for me. Stormlight is already in top 3 though after only 3 books. The only 2 above it are kingkiller chronicles and Malazan .

[@CedarVisionProd87]

I am reading it now, enjoying it so much! Sanderson is a master at what he does. His world building, characters, stories, magic rules!!! Thank you for the review!!!

[@killermajaro364]

try and get it on graphic audio : o so good

[@CedarVisionProd87]

@@killermajaro364 oh I do!

[@oliverprice9625]

Dude, can you like.. not... Slap a jump scare in the middle of an otherwise completely relaxing book review?

[@marcboulos]

hahahaha you made my day xD

[@simonholmqvist8017]

Just gonna finish Mistborn first. (I'm like 500 pages in on the second book and is planning to finish the third book next week, and I will possibly read gentlemen bastards first too.)

[@lyingcat9022]

Simon Holmqvist hows those Mistborn books coming? The 3 books in the first era are awesome! And the 4 in the second era (wild west/industrial) are great as well. I can’t wait for the third (80’s) and fourth (space age) eras!

[@simonholmqvist8017]

@@lyingcat9022 I finished the first era about one and a half months ago, but I probably won't read second era Mistborn for a while. Gentlemen bastards is going a bit slow, (I read them in English) I'm still on the first book, and after that serie I probably will read the stormlight archive. So perhaps I'll read the rest of Mistborn late this year.

[@lyingcat9022]

Simon Holmqvist you won’t be disappointed either way. Happy reading! :)

[@simonholmqvist8017]

@@lyingcat9022 Thanks!

[@gaveriocrimefamily6669]

@@simonholmqvist8017 Hey, is the 1st era in mistborn basically medieval? Also I love ASOIAF, which would you recommend me reading, mistborn or Stormlight archive?

[@FrancoCastro]

Life before death Journey before destination

[@martytu20]

I will protect those who can’t protect themselves.

[@wingracer1614]

@@martytu20 I will remember those who have been forgotten. I will listen to those who have been ignored.

[@calebmauer1751]

Cheese before constipation

[@Dannsenman]

Agree with everything you've said here. But, what Brandon brings to the table that I've not seen before is the sheer scale of the Cosmere, particularly when we look towards the in universe time of Mistborn Era 4, which will see the magic systems and world building from all of his previous works pulled together, bringing the universe from fantasy in to sci fi fantasy.

[@LouisKing995]

Daniel Perkins The Riftwar Saga is just as big in Scale

[@babybalrog]

Brandon Sanderson will never write grim dark..... "Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell" says hello

[@reklessbravo2129]

Threnody is creepy as hell

[@anotherchance4146]

I would still put Mistborn Era 1 as the most grim dark work he has written.

[@incognitoburrito6020]

@@anotherchance4146 Really? Mistborn 1 lives a little separate from grimdark in my mind. The setting's dark and oppressive, but a little too much hope and common goodness floating around for it to count, at least to me.

[@EE12345]

@@incognitoburrito6020 Agreed, the setting is dark, the story itself isn't. Sanderson actually managed to kill off nearly the entire cast in a "happy" way.

[@abhiprakash74999]

The paalm arc in mistborn era 2 ,as well

[@andrewsteier7923]

One of the things that's so great in this series and that I think is missing from a lot of today's literature is the character arcs. Sanderson's writing is so redemptive, and the more we learn about these characters, the better it gets. I've never read a series where the phrase "I forgive you." has meant so much and elicited such a response in me. ..Nor is it a common phrase at all. Sanderson is not just ambitious in his worldbuilding and scope, but he's bold in how personal and vulnerable it gets, all the while with so much hope in the face of personal and existential disaster. It's pure catharsis. It will make you cry, if you let yourself care. And you should definitely let yourself care.

[@Trisjack20]

Absolutely! Moments like 'For the Bridgemen' and 'You can't have my pain' or when Adolin sees the real Shallan through all the mixed up personalities and chooses her because he truly knows her. I could go on and on about the writing I really could. I love your comment.

[@metacarpitan]

CS Lewis definitely deserves the praise, imo. The chronicles of Narnia were my CHILDHOOD. Even more than Harry Potter , His dark materials or Eragon!!

[@iadd2568]

I’m not a Tolkien elitist by any means. And I’ve seen SEVERAL books tackle fantasy themes and tell tales of grander and more epic proportion’s than the books about Tolkien’s Middle earth. But (and you all knew there was gonna be a but) I’ve yet to see someone write a series with as much hidden themes and deep artistically expressed thoughts as the lord of the rings has. Tolkien not only was a great writer, linguist, and even map maker but he also was someone who to me (as I’m writing this) has yet to be paralleled at the depth of of which his language goes. On any page, and in any chapter of his books, you can pull some knowledge. The way he words things is difficult but also is so important to why his work is famous in the first place, because it’s deep. Plus his experiences in the Great War shape his work and points of view into something greater and it obviously plays a huge part in his themes

[@Gamesoldier68]

I have to completely agree. Brandon Sanderson is an absolute literary genius. His imagination and writing style is second to none. All of his work is also incredibly recreated by the actors, musicians, and sound crew over at Graphic Audio.

[@ArchlordZer0]

So from what I can gather, these are the most consistent top 5 fantasy series I see in no particular order: -Wheel of Time -Lord of the Rings -A Song of Fire and Ice -Witcher -Stormlight Archive

[@EE12345]

Most people dont include Witcher

[@ArchlordZer0]

@@EE12345 I usually see either Witcher or Mistborn in that slot. I'm guessing a lot people just don't like the author or just haven't read the books.

[@DoReMi123acb]

You really hit it out with this one. I literally watched all your Stormlight Archives summary vids during my work shifts and bought all three books because of how awesome you made them sound. He really is the greatest fantasy writer right Now! Seriously his world-building alone won me over! BTW, I also bought ALL Wheel of Time books(hardcovers.....from the USA) because of your undying praise for them. So worth it!

[@dragonworksgaming]

"I wish to live every day as if it were my last, lying in a puddle of my own urine calling for the nurse to bring me more pudding"

[@bfdavis1972]

Mike Tyson??? If Brandon bites off a piece of another author’s ear, let me know :). But yes, I think the Stormlight Archive has the potential to be one of those staples of the best of fantasy.

[@DanielGreeneReviews]

Off topic, but it’s kinda sad that Tyson is only known for that bite. I AM NOT DEFENDING HIM AT ALL. That was a shit thing to do, but as a fighter he was remarkable. His knockouts happened so fast, he literally changed how the sport was played. They had to add pre fights to make purchasing Tyson fights still worth it.

[@bfdavis1972]

Daniel Greene Agreed. I remember how angry some of my friends would get when they would pay so much to watch the game only to have it end in minutes or seconds. These days he is best known for “the Bite” or The Hangover. Just sad.

[@richiek1155]

I know this will sound cheesy but these books changed me. They changed the way I see people and the world. It sparked a new interest in books within me. I love these books and finding out there are going to be 7 more made me so happy. It was the best books I have ever read. I love it. They are so well written.

[@Dwish305]

The analogy was dead on, not only in boxing but in all walks of life, the pioneers will almost always get more credit because they didn’t have any source material to learn from. Great analogy! Btw, in my mind you’re the Tolkien of Epic Fantasy KZbin reviewers/influencers lol! In all seriousness you make great content, thanks.

[@Mojken_yakionigiri]

Does nothing new? I, at least, have never heard of someone setting multiple series in the same universe and interconnecting them like he is. Recurrent characters, underlying system for magic, and future books set in the universe at large. An origin story about the death of a god and the creation of multiple star systems, and then of course Odium being an antagonist on almost every planet. Brandon coined the term hard magic, and wrote the rules for how magic should work, something that is now generally known within the fantasy community. He's plenty original alright.

[@bogustoast22none25]

Indeed. I'm not versed in his work, just the stormlight. But I find it pretty good how characters are kept grounded when it comes to magic. They can be overpowered, but the supply quickly runs out, and then they go back to being normal, which frustrates them as they feel "weaker". It keeps evolving and making the character more and more powerful, but it grounds them again, and I love that.

[@Trisjack20]

Agreed,

[@thatbadmuthafucka2626]

I started reading "Wheel of Time" right before Robert Jordan died. After hearing about his death, I was worried about the series being finished. After reading the books Brandon Sanderson help put out, I became a fan of his. I read the Mistborn series and am currently reading "Oathbringer." I've even watched some of his lectures here on KZbin. I recommend his books to anyone who enjoys the fantasy genre.

[@MetalMeek]

I'm about 1/4 way through the audiobook of Way of Kings and just immensely enjoying it. I read Elantris first and thought it was very good. Sanderson is just a writing monster.

[@wanderdragon1075]

What’s got you hooked? I started Stormlight awhile back and...I couldn’t get into it. Daniel talks so highly of it, my friends love it, but to me it just felt so slow.

[@vildonfire]

I'm all audiobooks, and Kramer/Reading is by far the best out there in my oppinion, their work on Stormlight is excellent!

[@wanderdragon1075]

vildonfire I enjoy their reading of Wheel of Time, which I’m finally almost done with. I’ve also heard Kramer read Mistborn which was good. I tried reading (like actually reading, not audiobook) Way of Kings. Maybe audio will help but idk. Couldn’t get into the world.

[@vildonfire]

@@wanderdragon1075 yah def try the audiobook for stormlight :) kramer and reading id say is even better there than wot :)

[@incognitoburrito6020]

@@wanderdragon1075 I'd recommend reading Mistborn before Stormlight, if possible. Way of Kings can be paced slowly enough at times that building up expectations from Mistborn can help if keep you reading you feel like putting it down.

[@DanielGreeneReviews]

What series should I do next??

[@moistythighs6839]

first law

[@rujoolpatil1227]

Lord of the rings

[@mathewstormblessed4706]

Everything And if you can’t do everything maybe more cosmere

[@rayedjualidan1504]

Cycle of Arawn

[@jeffhamme3612]

Anthony Ryan Raven’s Shadow series

[@RobbieLee90]

"These two men have nothing else in common" Sanderson smirks, whilst stroking his tiger 🐅

[@birdieputtnh74]

I actually found that Way of Kings the hardest to read. I almost put the book down and stopped reading about halfway through, but damn, am I glad I kept reading. The second half of the book was phenomenal! And books 2 and 3 were amazing.

[@vildonfire]

I couln't listen fast enough through all of Kals storyline adapting into his new life, I just wanted more more more faster faster faster! The way he really makes you FEEL the characters small and big victories is brilliant!

[@timtheenchanter7660]

I hated the Shallan flash backs, I found the brothers irritating, and it was too slow for what I thought was an obvious plot point

[@Trisjack20]

@@timtheenchanter7660 What did you think was the obvious plot point? Just out of interest?

[@Trisjack20]

Lucky for you, you stuck with it :)

[@Benjiroyoface]

just bought way of kings let's fuggin gooooo

[@franciscobrisolladeoliveir9596]

Seriously, I'm almost finished with this book and I'm hitting myself for not reading it sooner. I'm sure this series will become the LOTR of the 21st century.

[@ElysLuke]

CS Lewis deserves his credit and respect

[@Visforelvenshireling]

Elyjah Howard Yes! However, If you hold only Narnia up to LOTR, Roshar, Westeros...etc, it is simply not as thickly, painstakingly, or logically world-built. Don’t get me wrong, Narnia is unparalleled in my heart! It was my gateway to fantasy and a love of reading.

[@noskalborg723]

Fun fact; C.S. Lewis was an Atheist converted to Christianity 👍.

[@MelficeN7]

@@noskalborg723 I don't think you understand what a "fun fact" is. Why would you even point that out, like ever.

[@noskalborg723]

@@MelficeN7 ...and J.R.Tolkein played a huge part in his conversion. C.S.Lewis wrote some VERY interesting books like "The Screwtape Letters" and "Out of the Silent Planet".

[@MelficeN7]

@@noskalborg723 Nice one 😂👌

[@jim.rnilsen9]

I have to disagree a bit with your boxing analogy, I would say that Tolkien would qualify as one of the the "old legends" Brandon would be the new champion that someone might argue is technically better but is not a legend yet, (if this was 2007-08 I would have pegged him as Floyd Mayweather) Don't get me wrong I do absolutely love brandon Sanderson he definitely is my favorite current writing author if not my all time favorite

[@Stuugie.]

I agree. I don't think he could be given the GOAT title until he finishes stormlight.

[@muhammadhashir6136]

Currently reading way of kings after completing the Mistborn era 1, secret history and elantris. I have read enough to call him my favrouite author and he can be the goat

[@jonathangurley1271]

You will not take my pain

[@datonebri5361]

You cannot have my pain. You. cannot. have. my. pain.

[@peterparker8462]

Aaaahhhhhhhhhhhhaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

[@peterparker8462]

(not-so-internally screams whilst reading)

[@pontuzz560]

Re-reading the current stormlight books for the 3rd time now. Loved mistborn and waiting for more. Recently purchased Elantris and The secret history, still waiting for them to arrive. Read skyward (standalone non cosmere) and it's a great book, easier to digest and the second book is coming this fall. Starsight is the title I believe. I am so grateful I found Brandon when he did a great job with the Wheel of Time after Robert's passing.

[@bruceh9780]

Don't forget Warbreaker or you may eat the wrong flower :P

[@pontuzz560]

​@@bruceh9780 hehe I've ordered it already, been waiting for it to show up in the mail alongside Elantris/secret history :D

[@aesthetesw8159]

I think about "Honor is dead, but I'll see what I can do" all the time

[@jcm334]

I started reading the Wheel of Time to fill the gaps between the Storm Light releases lol Now I'm addicted to WoT though I find Brandon's writing style a little more accessible. Anyway, great job and I love your videos!

[@Trisjack20]

Well put

[@nvwest]

4:26 why did you feel the need to do that Scared me so much 😂

[@juliand6317]

The boxing metephor is great. But really it’s hard to compare J.R.R Tolkien with anyone. His scope and world building is still nuts by today’s standards but compared with his contemporary’s he was unbelievable. Simply way before his time. Simply THE father of modern fantasy. Brandon is, by my estimates, the best fantasy writer of our time. He is incredible. But still never going to be comparable to Tolkien.

[@derekdurst9216]

It depends on how you grade it though. I do think Brandon has better magic systems and characters, and more inventive and different worlds. He’s easier to read, but Tolkien has better voice, worldbuilding, writing style and stuff. Depends on what you like. I prefer Sanderson, and agree that Tolkien was more influential, but I enjoy Sanderson way more.

[@juliand6317]

No doubt I enjoy the way Sanderson tells a story better. But as far as discerning the ‘greatest’ in any given field I think the main two indicators are: 1. Comparison to contemporaries; 2. Impact culturally & within their respective field. These two metrics seem especially useful/fair when comparing people across different time periods. Take Michael Jordan, probably would be average if he played in his prime today. But because of his massive cultural impact and how much he stood apart from his contemporaries in skill, he is still by my reckoning the greatest basketballer ever.

[@bogustoast22none25]

Tolkien will always hold a dear place in my heart as the one who set a precedent for decades of fantasy work, his own work immense. But his time passed. More and more people move away from copying his world and decide to try to build their own. Patrick Rothfuss, Brandon Sanderson. However you out it these two guy are setting a new precedent in story telling. One with amazing writing and phrasing that requires multiple reads to fully grasp. The other by building worlds that are as captivating as bizarre and as amazing.

[@bogustoast22none25]

@@vladimirremmirez7671 I have not heard of him, though the reading material I am exposed to is limited, so I can't make an opinion on him.

[@mistersharpe4375]

(Personal opinions ahoy!) To be honest I don't think Tolkien even really belongs in the category of "Fantasy Authors" because he just simply did not think about nor approach his writings the way a conventional author does. Its cliche, but I think the reason we Tolkien fans are as obsessive as we are, is because LOTR feels more like an ancient legend that's been passed down for centuries. It just evokes feelings that only deep history and mythology can. Now your more contemporary authors like Jordan or Sanderson, while they might technically be better "novelists", they just will not have that same impact on the cultural psyche. Their invented worlds might have more detail and all that, but they still feel like the inventions of novelists.

[@JonathanVegaa]

It’s hilarious you comparing reading and authors to boxers while I just finished watching some boxing videos and I’m currently reading ASOIAF and thinking of reading storm light archives

[@Matdias1997]

Hi Daniel! It's been almost a year since your top 10 fantasy series video. That video is probably my favorite video on this channel and I want to know if you plan on making an updated version in 2019. I saw your video comparing Lightbringer and Stormlight and if I remember correctly you gave Stormlight better ratings than Lightbringer. I want to know if you changed your mind on any of the older series and if a new series that you have picked this year has reached your top 10. Cheers from Brazil!

[@twisteddman]

Got in to Sanderson from his work on the wheel of time novels. He has become one of my favorite authors of late. Mistborn and stormlight are so good. reading to his one off warbreaker right now. Him and Ruthfuss are my new favorites

[@DeathKnightx99]

That's exactly how I found him I started reading his books while I waited for the wheels of times to be finished

[@taylorhauser3347]

I hope warbreaker gets a sequel. I think the magic system is extremely underrated

[@mazrimtaim3107]

I'm gonna comment until you love me

[@sktt1oppa463]

DANIEL PLEASE STOP! I STILL HAVE THE HERO OF AGES AND WARBREAKER TO READ BEFORE I START THE STORMLIGHT ARCHIVE STOP TEMPTING ME TO SKIP THEM!

[@Wiizardii]

One should not forget that Tolkien wrote TLOTR in his sixties (even though he had most of the stuff mapped out before). Age is just a number in this game. Sanderson is 45 in 2020, he has many, many, many years left to ice the cake. People are already saying that the Stormlight is his magnum opus and there are 6 novels left. I believe he has much more beyond the cosmere.

[@slicepizzapie]

Hey Daniel, I agree with your main criticism, but I do feel like Brandon incorporated a lot of Horror elements into Oathbringer. The giant pulsating heart around the core of Uritheru is straight out of love craft, and what’s going on in the palace in Kholinar, people crawling around in ecstasy, is pretty F’in scary. Now I agree that this falls in line with your other point, his influences are really clear in those scenes, but it’s something that’s outside the normal fantasy toolbox imo

[@vertabreakTKd]

You should edit your comment and tag with spoilers. If someone hasn't read the series they won't know about content in Oathbringer. I do agree with your comment though.

[@sotakunaii]

and most of all it already goes into the grimdark direction or not?

[@vertabreakTKd]

@@sotakunaii it's not really that dark. There are some scenes that can be considered dark but I've read much darker stuff in books that aren't classified as dark.

[@matthewksiders]

What will be Sanderson's ear-biting moment?

[@macmay3042]

Something with Rothfuss.

[@DanielGreeneReviews]

Haha let’s hope none.

[@FVIIFrost]

Writing off Padan Fain without a satisfying resolution.

[@cameronyeager7482]

@@FVIIFrost I think Padan Fain should have died way earlier. I don't know where Robert was going with the dude past Children of the Light, so I don't blame Brandon for that rather abrupt ending on his character arc. What did you have in mind?

[@loki.odinson]

Another heavyweight pro boxer author is Patrick Rothfuss, though he does not have the ability to churn out books quickly.

[@BookishEmperor]

Hah, Rothfuss is a joke at this point. He can't even finish a trilogy.

[@davidgoldman9351]

I seriously doubt Sanderson will fall. He's already having influence in present day fantasy literature. I can't wait to read The rythm of war, but as they say: journey before destination.

[@Trisjack20]

Agreed. e is already far more than a one hit wonder. Sometimes people do not realise how much he has already done. I had one person trying to get me into an argument and just flat out said that Bradon had never finished a single series he had started. I had to blink a few times and then I asked him how many books he thought Brandon had written and published.... he says 5! I almost laughed in his face... but don't worry I didn't!

[@peterparker8462]

Elantris sequel? It's just my favourite single book he's written

[@psal8715]

I love that book, somehow everytime i read it i get something new out of it.

[@sadrequiem]

Brandon Sanderson is a genius!

[@Steeldragon794]

It's awesome that you're a boxing fan! I'm a fighter (mma and k1) and also a fantasy nerd just like you! :)

[@zachindes]

My man, agree with everything you’ve said. Brandon truly is amazing. Quality AND quantity

[@jim.rnilsen9]

Proclaiming him GOAT at this point is a bit too early imo, as I think this is way too hard to have a good opinion on considering that he's series is not completed yet, and mistborne Era 1 though it is a great series it is not the goat. Dose he have potential to become a goat? Yes absolutely. But one would not judge a building That was only 30% completed and judge it to be the best of all time without even knowing what it will look like when finished. And comparing to Tolkien will always be a bit imbalanced imo, to stay whit the building anology (perhaps not the best examples but) who is/was the greatest the person behind Hagia Sophia/Pantheon, Rome or the more modern person who was behind the Sydney Opera House/some other new master pice The opera house might be more complex and superior in many ways but still... Perhaps comparing the person behind the Colosseum to a modern stadium would be more corect but my point is the same

[@EE12345]

If he finishes Stormlight Archive and all 4 eras of Mistborn at his current level of quality, he'll be an undisputed frontrunner for the GOAT argument imo.

[@David-un4cs]

@@EE12345 Not to mention Dragonsteel at someday.

[@Trisjack20]

That is really what Daniel said in his video. He said he isn't...yet several times. But he said don't be surprised if people start talking about him as such. Also he has released a lot of books not just SA and Mistborn 1 as you doubtless know. Tolkien wrote I believe 15 books (Counting LOTR as three not one), basically only 5 of which are well known and regularly commented on though Leaf and Niggle is interesting to be sure. Brandon is well beyond this and has written more already than many writers ever wrote. He has several completed works many still in production and has shown capacity to hit Grade school, YA, epic fantasy, sci-fi etc. So to sum up yes I think calling anyone (Even Bradon) the GOAT is a big statement and I agree it is hard to compare people of different ages and your architecture analogy holds up but to call him 30% is a mistake. Stormlight is 30% done but Brandon is already... clearly... a complete author. Is there room for growth? Of course! Is he definitely better than any other writer ever... probably not.... and certainly not provable... will he be better in a dozen years with Stormlight nearing completion and 5 other series done... certainly. Do we have enough to judge him on already though? Yes... yes we do. More than most authors will ever produce.

[@aaronallen8257]

Brandon Sanderson is my favorite fantasy author, I have never read a series that was so well mapped out (Mistborns *Her Earring*). Love everything this man puts to paper.

[@Ketutar]

4:29 Adaptations in the next 10-15 years... The Way of Kings 2010 Words of Radiance 2014 Oathbringer 2017 Rhythm of War 2020 - expected Books 5-10 expected. Let's say he takes 3 years to write a book. The last book in this series (the last book that we know of) will come out 2038. Don't you think people learned something with Harry Potter and Game of Thrones?

[@aayushs8128]

The Stormlight Archive is my favorite series ever.

[@roseplate279]

READ THE BOOK READ THE BOOK READ THE BOOK READ THE BOOK but srsly they're really good

[@shawnduket5417]

Great video as always. What I liked most is how Robert Jordan was compared to Tolkien. Tolkien is considered by many to be the godfather of fantasy. Jordan took that and ran with it by creating characters and a world that makes the reader hypnotized and wanting more. It was a shame that he died before finishing his masterpiece but he had everything in place for Brandon Sanderson to pick up where he left off. I haven't read much of Sanderson but I do have Elantris, Mistborn, and the Stormlight Archives. I'm looking forward to reading those as well as more fantasy which is my favorite genre to read. Keep up the great work and you've got a fan here.

[@kirkulessonofgoose7503]

I just purchased The Way of Kings and can't wait to dive in. So far Robert Jordan, Sara Douglass, Robin Hobb, Raymond Feist and George R R Martin are my top 5.

[@Loonadance1212]

4:27 the kitty cat appears 😍

[@LaMarco0]

The book is certainly well written, however, it is incredibly boring. The pacing is slow and none of the main characters are particularly interesting. I did not enjoy reading this at all, it felt like a task. Great book, but not the book for me.

[@katharinafisher394]

i thought it was dogs that always resemble their owners...

[@hendrikkranen662]

Okay here is the thing i haven’t read the books yet i only heard great things and accidentally bought and read the third book of the stormlight books( and there only a few chapters) but i just can’t bring myself to like this author or his writing. And just every time someone mentions him i just cringe a bit because for someone who is praised so highly i just couldn’t like his writing style it just felt so meh (and christ did it annoy me when these weird elves things go to the humans and don’t understand what slaves are and diced to rather quickly kill the human king) but after watching this video i have decided to give him another shot and read the first book of the stormlight archives

[@neddhu]

Love this guy... since he finished WOT .. mistborn and stormlight are insanely good

[@magnushornbk7097]

"this has been done before-" Me, who's finished three books in my life, one of which being mandatory school work: *aw for real? Bummer*

[@timothyandrews3332]

Stormlight archives has become my favorite series and I've read them all.

[@mrhno1syjun1or67]

Life Before Death, Strength before Weakness, Journey before Destination Airsick lowlanders

[@Silverjerk]

I'm a bit of a Fantasy whore. I have those elitist friends who laud Jordan, Tolkien, Martin and Erikson for their prolific world-building, their use of prose, and their unbelievable attention to detail. These are the same guys that despise Weis and Hickman, or RA Salvatore; they're the "dime store novel" naysayers who believe Fantasy has to be difficult to approach, and who actually enjoy the challenge of reading a book multiple times in order to fully absorb the story. Personally, I think that opinion is bullshit. I read anything that I enjoy, and if I don't enjoy something it has less to do with the writer's competency or particular style, and more to do with the story simply not speaking to me. What I love about Sanderson, is he falls squarely in the middle of these two types of Fantasy authors (the meticulous world builders, and the action-packed page turners). When someone asks me "which books do I read to get into Fantasy?" I immediately point them in Sanderson's direction; he's ostensibly a gateway drug for both the Tolkiens and Salvatores of the genre, a unique writer who blurs the lines between the tedious, and the simple. I only regret taking so long before adding Mistborn and Stormlight to my own reading lists. I'd been missing out for years on what is some of the best work the genre has seen.

[@nebeskisrb7765]

IMO, Sanderson is too... clean? Watch his writing lessons on youtube, as you read his novels you will see exactly how he applies things he said in the lessons to his writing... and that feels to clinical. It's like he made writing into a science, not an art. Which is why, I assume, he can dish out a book every year. Because he does it on an algorithm. PS. They're still hellova fun tho.

[@taylorhauser3347]

He is a prodigy. I've told people this. Tolkien, Sanderson, Herbert, Jordan (who Sanderson masterfully finished), etc. Geniuses. It takes an incredible mind to keep entire worlds and storylines connected, developed, then WRITTEN down on paper correctly.

[@vertabreakTKd]

I love Sanderson. I've read every one of his books, multiple times. You didn't mention the cosmere did you? That for me improves his books the Nth degree.

[@rasaecnai]

Stormlight archive's battle sequences are some of the best ones i've read. The way Brando Sando's describe fights feels like I was there witnessing it. In this regard I consider him above Tolkien, who does not really go into the details of fights, and Robert Jordan, who just spouts names of sword movements without really explaining what they mean. Brandon sanderson actually writes fight choreography and you can follow what happened.

[@prod805212]

Dude, idk how i've never found your channel. You're SO well-spoken, and clearly know your stuff. Well done, sincerely.

[@fcold9402]

Hopefully he doesn't go nuts like Tyson and lose it all. I hope Sanderson can maintain his high level of writing into old age. I would like to see his cosmere come together like the MCU did with Infinity War and Endgame (I realize readers may not be comic book movie fans but this is what I am comparing it too because I had fun with the 10 years of MCU). Like the MCU some of the books are great and some are just good. For me the Stormlight Archive have been the best he has writen.

[@Trisjack20]

Agreed and that is certainly what Brandon is hoping. He is a planner after all... a long long term planner.

[@jeykneeko_606]

Sanderson is also really good if you’re an anime fan. There’s a lot of character development that happens in his books and while pacing may sometimes be an issue, when an action scene comes up it is usually really intense and heart pounding.

[@UdyKumra]

I would disagree that he loves Mistborn more than Stormlight and that he only wants Stormlight to be his epic mark on the genre. He started writing the Way of Kings before even Elantris was published. I think this IS his passion project.

[@lyingcat9022]

I agree with this review. Sanderson is definitely the Iron Mike of fantasy writers!