Where Should I Start With Your Books?

Here is the first, in a probably very long series, of questions I get asked a ton. Today, I answer the question-in depth-Where to begin reading my books. Enjoy.
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[@agnes3421]

Why am I watching this video having read almost all of Sanderson’s books? No idea, but still having a great time.

[@t-mario7805]

Same

[@dig8634]

Don't mind me. Just here watching while reading Words of Radience for the 4th time XD Totally not obsessed or anything

[@greggory1296]

I think ive read through all of stormlight (so far) at least 5 times hahaha

[@omaralm8061]

Same 😂

[@shahrzadyaghoobi107]

same

[@ShalomDove]

“I wrote 13 before I sold one.” God bless! That’s a man who’s doing the work for love, not money ( though I’m glad for you that the money came around eventually s well ). “A cross between oceans 11 and my fair lady in a world where the dark lord won,” is the best elevator pitch I’ve heard in a long time .

[@otto_jk]

That's just the reality of the publishing industry. People like Murakami who just immediately show up with a great piece of fiction and win awards with their first work are extremely rare.

[@AuthorJohnADouglas]

This comment rings even truer now after his Kickstarter where he dumped four secret books he wrote in his spare time

[@AvoidingtheQuestion]

I would guess that no one is writing fantasy novels for the money

[@nishthagupta1357]

Exactly yes ikr

[@nishthagupta1357]

@@otto_jk lol yes❤️

[@TrafalgarL4wyer]

Mr. Sanderson, you’re a badass. The world is lucky to have you writing.

[@aidengray3998]

As with Bob Ross and Mr. Rogers, the world is changed by his existence in it.

[@natanoj16]

@@aidengray3998 and the same with both of those 90% of the world doesn't know about them ^^ But that doesn't make them less impactful ^^

[@Darkkfated]

For me, it's hard to top Mistborn as the starting point. "A thousand years ago, the prophesied hero arose from humble beginnings to defeat the Deepness and save humanity. He failed." As soon as I read that on the back cover, I HAD to read that book and let me tell you, it's been one hell of a ride ever since.

[@terrelljohnson5811]

That opening got me as well lol

[@sanin3213]

Isn't that a massive spoiler for the first book?

[@terrelljohnson5811]

@@sanin3213 not at all

[@sanin3213]

@@terrelljohnson5811 But aren't we supposed to think that the hero won? (I haven't read book 3 yet so it's possible I'm missing some key parts haha)

[@terrelljohnson5811]

@@sanin3213 no actually not. Because he pretty much states that the hero lost from the beginning. So you know something happen for the hero to not have succeeded in their quest. But finish book 3. All things comes full circle and you will understand how all 3 books are linked and that opening statement as well from book 1.

[@noelhann5262]

The way I pitched Stormlight to my close friend is by describing the world building. “There is a race of people with really incredibly long eyebrows”. That’s apparently all it takes.

[@Sheriff_K]

Yeah, I usually focus on the unique world of Stormlight when pitching it.

[@DanielLopez-ob9jz]

You don't just pitch all Sandy books by saying that everyone is depressed? Smh

[@nathanscarlett4772]

@@DanielLopez-ob9jz just like in the real world?! 🤣

[@prakrithkeshav9425]

and people who can write tattoos onto their skin

[@UdyKumra]

His description of Skyward: "It's normal book sized" 😂

[@reallynotkaladin9964]

His definition of normal book size and ours is very different lol

[@raphaelsantore1430]

Its so short, I finished it is like 3 days

[@cambot96]

Like a crazy person, I started with Stormlight having not read any fantasy fiction for about ten years. Probably the best decision I ever made ! It's incredibly immersive and rewarding storytelling.

[@RotaAbyssian]

That is much similar to myself, actually. Dave Bulmer, aka Demon Tomato Dave, had pitched The Way of Kings on his channel, and it got me interested! I think the last books I had read in general were all in the Redwall series, though I had gone through a few of them before tucking in to what I anticipated to be a dense read, and it was.

[@Spurioushamster]

These books helped me get back into reading and quit my substance abuse, they literally changed my life

[@bradproctor6499]

@@Spurioushamster incredible. hope they have the same effect on me

[@Spurioushamster]

@@bradproctor6499 stick with them mate. The last 1/4 of way of kings I literally couldn't put down. I went from the dawnlight books to Mistborn. Planning to explore the whole cosmere.

[@briansmoot8234]

Stormlight was my first epic fantasy and Sanderson book. It was...an experience. But it was a good one.

[@Luke-jo4to]

A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one.

[@PapaNierForReplicant]

Glad to hear that I'm not the only person who jumped straight to Stormlight

[@moumitareads3738]

@@PapaNierForReplicant I am thinking too? Will there be any problem? If I jump direct to reading it without reading his other books?

[@PapaNierForReplicant]

@@moumitareads3738 There shouldn't be any problem... though keep it mind that the books in the Stormlight Archive series are VERY long.

[@moumitareads3738]

@@PapaNierForReplicant yeah ....so I m thinking to buy initially 3bks

[@BodyProjectchallenge]

Am currently in the middle of the Mistborn trilogy (Well of Ascension) Final Empire was the first of your books I've read, and it feels like a fabulous place to start. It's generated excitement not only to finish this series, but also to explore the rest.

[@coffeedude]

Well of Ascension is so good

[@aliaibrahim4517]

The final empire was my first Sanderson book too and I wholeheartedly believe it’s a great place to start. Especially if you’re a YA reader, it’s a great transition!!

[@connorpoblete5090]

Bruh same

[@connorpoblete5090]

I'm on page 481 of well of ascension

[@luketufts6827]

@@connorpoblete5090 you’re in for a ride 😅

[@omaralm8061]

The one thing I would say is read Stormlight after reading Mistborn, Elantris, and Warbreaker, I think it enhances the experience.

[@willyrodriguez10]

I read Stormlight first, then mistborn and then elantris

[@qirinsylvanius6356]

Yeah, bc there's a LOT of easter eggs from all his cosmere books mentioned in Stormlight, and I hate that even having read all of his cosmere books, I still don't get certain references, they're so well hidden.

[@omaralm8061]

@@willyrodriguez10 now reread Stormlight again you’ll find Easter eggs in the first interlude 🤗

[@omaralm8061]

@@qirinsylvanius6356 exactly 😊

[@willyrodriguez10]

@@omaralm8061 ok

[@dasolemnvizitah4473]

As a general rule, you cant go wrong reading the books in order based on when you released them.

[@anshulgoyal597]

that is the rule i follow as well, in books as well as movie series.

[@tadious9415]

It can help to get someone hooked into Brandon first though, if they'd be more interested in a Mistborn style book or a Way of Kings style than Elantris that's a better way to get them into the author.

[@Matkatamiba]

I don't really agree. His first couple books aren't nearly as engaging as some of his later ones if you want to get people hooked. Mistborn or Stormlight 100%

[@yaelfeldman6965]

Sorry, it's a bit rambally. I'm just giving my opinions on the matter. When talking about a continuing story this rule is ussually true. There might be a better place to start in, but reading from the beginning isn't a bad idea, However Brandon's books aren't all a part of one continuing story (some are, but the story isn't even clear yet, and each book has it's own stories...) I do not think therefore that starting with the first published book is a great option for all. Some will need proof they will like Brandon's writing before starting with one of his early works. Also it isn't the first book he has written, only the first one he has published, so which one do you start with? The first to be written or published? Finally: Let me intreduce you to the Fate franchise, where watching in order of the release date is the only order everyone agrees you shouldn't do.

[@dasolemnvizitah4473]

@@yaelfeldman6965 The first to be published I'd say. I'm really just talking about the Cosmere though. For everything else, I'd say read them in any order you please based on what genre or overall type of story you like

[@YourBrainonBooks]

I started with Mistborn and happy I did. It established my trust in Brandon’s ability to finish stories strong. That was necessary for me to delve into the larger scale of stormlight archive. Then again I don’t mind long series. My wife on the other hand is not an avid reader and experience with fantasy was limited to Harry Potter. I had her read Warbreaker to get a feel for his writing without the intimidation of a long series. She loved it and is now curious about the others, something I hope for but did not expect.

[@jp-dq5hc]

Honorable Mention, The Reckoners Series, starting out with Steel Heart. Great Books i would love to see transform in to movies done right.

[@CrapE_DM]

If you're into board games, I highly recommend the Reckoners board game.

[@jp-dq5hc]

@@CrapE_DM Thanks for the heads up. Gonna have to look that up!!!!

[@riverground]

The fact that it has no clear pitch is one of the things I really like about stormlight archive. It's just not easy to capture it in a few words based on preexisting tropes and archetypes.

[@aplatypusguy27]

For a second I thought this video was gonna be Brandon asking me where he should start with reading my books... even though I haven't written any books.... obviously I didn't read the title correctly lol

[@taikajorma7276]

Me too but just assumed its some writing/pithching advice

[@barbarasusej]

LOL. I had the same feeling.

[@TheNinjaDwarfBiker]

"Where should you start with my books?" would be a better title imo

[@jimmyboyle3543]

1. I too read the title exactly that way. 2. GO BIRDS!

[@marcusdowning]

"Well, since you're asking, Mr Sanderson, I recommend starting with..."

[@solfolgarait3745]

Everytime I watch Brandon talk about his books and what he loves to write I grow increasingly more sure of the fact that I hit jackpot by finding the Cosmere sagas and an author like him!

[@michaelmancoke8840]

I need a sequel to The Rithmatist!! I started out with storm light and then got hooked to everything Sanderson! I’ve read everything but the alcetraz series. This man is so talented my favorite author ever for this variety, excellent worlds and characters, and HIS SPEED! This man is a machine pumping out so many books. Can’t wait for the next story you’ll tell Brandon!

[@potionseller2083]

I started with Way of Kings, and it immeditely became my favourite book of all time.

[@slipperysteve8]

Same for me

[@jokerryt2503]

Same

[@collinwillsey354]

I read Mistborn first and thought it was above average, didn't finish the trilogy because life got in the way of the library. I read Way of Kings and fell in love instantly, and read the whole thing in a transatlantic flight. I've been devouring the Cosmere ever since. I do wish I'd read Warbreaker first, since there's the most Easter eggs from Warbreaker.

[@potionseller2083]

@@collinwillsey354 you gotta finish the mistborne Trilogy. It's perfection.

[@collinwillsey354]

@@potionseller2083 Just finished Well of Ascension today and it was awesome.

[@jaredjohannson7354]

I started reading the Way Of Kings, and I have to say, every page is insane. I mean, holy crap.

[@johnrichardson8209]

My start was with Wheel of Time. From there, I learned that your writing was incredible. I went straight from that to Way of Kings/Stormlight (my absolute favorite series in all of literature). Since then I have read almost all of the Cosmere books and currently am impatiently waiting for my preorder of Rhythm of War to arrive.

[@epic321123]

I haven't read any of his books and Mistborn sounds incredible. Such an interesting concept, a thousand years after the protagonist of another story failed, a team consisting of different specialists gets together to accomplish the task.

[@EtherealDoomed]

If in the ensuing months since this comment you haven't read Mistborn, this is a random internet stranger's note that you should go pick it up!

[@epic321123]

@@EtherealDoomed Reading through stormlight archive right now, I'll definitely get to mistborn afterwards

[@AzureCressington]

I started with the original Mistborn trilogy, loved them so much that I just decided to read Brandon's entire bibliography in release order 🙂

[@t14dann18]

lol, this is what i did

[@danielwitt1793]

I started Way of Kings first. For me, it was the PERFECT mix of knowing whats happening and not knowing what the hell is going on.

[@packetpirate]

I started with the Stormlight Archive and am currently reading Elantris and loving it. Warbreaker is next on my list, and then Mistborn. Would also love to squeeze White Sand in there somewhere.

[@birdyfeederz7940]

What I love about his books is that the plot twist is never just "oh, look... He was a ghost all along", but more like "wait, what? holy crap.... Literally nothing is what *anybody* thought it was"

[@g4holla]

"grew a lot between Elantris and Mistborn." Could've fooled me. Just reread Elantris, and it's as beautiful and moving as every other time I've read it.

[@chloeluce1286]

My first was steelheart !!! It's been forever since I've read it and it's so different from everything else but it's great!!

[@kahabel]

Started with The Way of Kings. Basically, I was bullied into reading it by my brother and LOVED IT! Totally recommend starting there if you are down for the commitment.

[@L1ghtRe4per]

As a wise man said. Start at the beginning! Read Elantris and move forward from there and you can really see how much Brandon's writing skills improve and how he develops characters and story telling aspects. Not saying Elantris was bad, in fact it's one of my favorites.

[@noname3609]

I definetly agree with this !!!

[@stianaslaksen5799]

I'll pitch Stormlight for you: "Read it. You will not be disappointed!"

[@CrapE_DM]

Some people will. It takes a while before you have any idea what's happening.

[@jonathananderson260]

@@CrapE_DM yeah it took me about 300 pages into the way of kings before I knew what the hell was going on.

[@vallano8970]

@@jonathananderson260 what were u so confused about 😭

[@jonathananderson260]

@@vallano8970 I was confused as where he was going and stuff. I probably wasn't paying attention very well.

[@marcothlud]

My order was Elantris, Warbreaker, first Mistborn trilogy and now the stormlight archives. I would really recommend it.

[@miso306]

Wow, that's actually the exact same order I've read in. Nice to see I'm not alone

[@jimmyboyle3543]

The thing about starting with Mistborn, is you get to see so many themes of Brandon's writing play out in a really satisfying way. Then... you go over to Stormlight and see some of those same themes play out in a more dynamic and thoughtful way, over even more time. I've since gone back and read Elantris and, while I don't think it's as engaging as the two Epic stories he's still in the process of telling, it was really fun to explore another world that is incredibly fleshed out and satisfying in an isolated story. Personally, I would recommend; Mistborn era 1 all the way through, then Stormlight all the way through (or as much as has been released when you read this), then while you're waiting for another entry in those first two, take a look at Elantris and Warbreaker to get your fix! P.S. Mistborn era 2 is super crazy fun, but each book is far shorter and should be treated as an action-packed treat when you want to unwind and just devour a book in a world that makes you feel at home.

[@Calirohe]

Can I just mention how grateful I am for Brandon's existence? Because I certainely am

[@DryBooks]

“It is normal book sized” Lol I love that description!

[@Sly_Pillow]

I started with Elantris, then moved on to the Stormlight Archive. Both are amazing! I'm looking forward to reading more.

[@luketufts6827]

Warbreaker and Mistborn are also amazing, Mistborn has a lot of my favorite plot twists Brandon has ever done 🙃 and a few characters from warbreaker appear in SA

[@JS-vm6zf]

Didn't trust you, didn't know you to be 100% honest. Started with Way of Kings and was blown away! I now have multiple series from you and you are definitely my favorite author by far, I can't wait for the story to continue but no rush, I will be here. Thanks, Brandon!

[@johnjamison4579]

I started with The Way of Kings and finished it in just two and a half weeks. It really meshed with me, personally. I very quickly went through Words of Radiance and Oathbringer at a similar pace. I am now reading the Final Empire, and basically plan to read as much of your work as I can before I move on to the Wheel of Time. I think that if somebody is going to like your writing then they'll be able to start with anything. While I am no good at such things, I suppose I would describe Stormlight as an epic wartime fantasy that explores the ideas of broken honor (sometimes literally), redemption, and what it means to have true purpose.

[@sukaygunsayran8694]

I started off with Mistborn, reaaaally good start to get into Brandon’s writings. The nobility theme, Sezad’s journal entries, the incredible world building. Just everythinh about it is fantastic.

[@MarkWilson-ij9jd]

I'm a carpenter, working in a secluded wood shop in rural Brazil (I'm a Canadian, but I spend my winters building houses here), and I listen to audiobooks while I work. I only heard about Brandon Sanderson after seeing a random youtube video about the best fantasy/ sci-fi series, and he nothing but glowing compliments for Brandon's work. I'll be giving it a try tomorrow, and I'm excited.

[@LinkingYellow]

My attempt at pitching stormlight: In a world where its nations are constantly at war, how does it react when hit by supernatural forces and a supernatural enemy? Join Kaladin, a surgeon turned soldier, Dalinar, a warlord turned diplomat, and Shallan, a shut-in scholar turned thief as they try to adapt to and protect the volatile world of Roshar.

[@Justusrabbits]

You have a way with words!

[@shadedizzy]

Your voice must be deep and gravely, for any other voice saying this wouldn't be uninteresting, but certainly less epic and with less explosions.

[@kayleeann4871]

Someone hire this person rn

[@Sheriff_K]

Dang, goosebumps.

[@Kyrbi0]

Very good!

[@doorstepcult2407]

Just jumped head-first into Stormlight after having reread the Kingkiller Chronicles and ASOIAF AGAIN. I've got no idea what's going on but I love it so far.

[@zackglenn2847]

I would love to see your thoughts on the Time magazine 100 best fantasy books of all time. I thought it was interesting that they included Mistborn instead of The Way of Kings.

[@Eagleye-ws1lk]

Probably because mistborn is done (era 1 at least) and Stormlight is still going

[@SequentialConsequence]

@@Eagleye-ws1lk This is what I thought as well, but they include other unfinished series and even newer books (for example Rage of Dragons is on there).

[@yanigallo8732]

I would read EVERYTHING you publish even if its your shopping list I love you Branderson

[@ClubbingSealCub]

I started with Stormlight (Way of Kings, Words of Radiance, Oathbreaker) and then branched out to ther rest of the cosmere and, while I don't regret it, now that I've reread it while being more 'invested', if I had read it after Mistborn, Elantris and Warbreaker, Stormlight would've blown my mind.

[@Gamerdrone497]

I did the same but with audio books. Man they were a ride, that moment when Dalinar claps his hands. Oooh, goosebumps. Also nice word play.

[@Struggler12349]

@@Gamerdrone497 I AM UNITY Jesus Christ man that was powerful writing.

[@michaelvallejos2057]

Hi man i was about to start with The way of kings but your coment made me want to check out mistborn first so thanks an advance if it ends out to be as mind blowing as you say :)

[@jonatanpersson82]

Let me tell you, sadly as it might be for you... You are absolutely correct, I started with mistborn era 1 then Elantris and warbreaker, then mistborn era 2, secrets and all the short stories, then jumped into stormlight and it was amazing! Or actually at first I found it strange and couldnt really grasp where it was going, but man has it evolved!

[@precisism1804]

Stormlight would’ve been the same book so how would that have caused it to “blow your mind”?

[@elijahgreenberg2634]

Personally, I started with The Way of Kings. Holy crap, best book I've ever read. Finished it in like 4 days on vacation, and as we were getting home I immediately went to the library to get Words of Radiance.

[@WasatchWind]

Go rogue, start with Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell.

[@Seppevh]

Sixth of the Dusk is solid too

[@Struggler12349]

@@Seppevh the only downside is that six of the dusk finishes where the full story would really pick up. We need a sequel. Doesn't beat the Emperor's souls for me, you could read that one without even reading elantris.

[@NicJLock]

My personal journey with your books started with Warbreaker as I didn't want to commit to a series. Then the Mistborn trilogy, Elantris, Legion and Stormlight. Currently rereading (yes, I'm insane) Stormlight in preparation for Rhythm of War. Whenever I recruit friends as Sander-fans, I have them read Warbreaker and then Mistborn with the caveat that the best is to come with Stormlight. It's worked on everyone I've tried it on so far!

[@ephraimcullen]

*Cries in rithmatics* When are we getting a rithmatist sequel? It ended on a cliffhanger and it's been YEARS since i've even heard mention of it :(

[@Z3DT]

He writes something called State of the Sanderson every year on his website. He's mentioned Rithmatist will have a sequel one day, but he's not sure when, because there's some political issues in the worldbuilding need to be worked out first.

[@WasatchWind]

I know 😓 Just read Rithmatist for the first time, and thought it was a standalone. However, the one I need finished first is book four of Mistborn era 2, The Lost Metal. Gosh I love Mistborn era 2.

[@masonwheeler6536]

@@WasatchWind Same here. I wanted The Lost Metal more than even Rhythm of War, and it kinda irritates me that Skyward sequels have pushed it back twice now.

[@micahbarrus8406]

Not gonna lie, I completely forgot about Rithmatist because it's been so dang long...

[@thehoogard]

@@WasatchWind Yeah, I even prefer Era 2 to Era 1.

[@KriusAerion]

I legitimately JUST started the Stormlight Chronicles and I've had a long time since my last time reading any book really, and MAN I absolutely consumed The Ways of Kings. I'm now deep into Words of Radiance and I can't stop. Can't wait to read the Mistborn series when I'm all caught up with Stormlight. I feel like I've missed out in real true Fantasy for a while. Keep em coming!

[@jakehopkins6989]

*Archives

[@leonmayne797]

I started with Steelheart. It was amazing. I can't wait to read Mistborn because epic fantasy is my favourite genre and Brandon Sanderson is my new favourite author, but I'm currently working my way through Elantris first. It's funny - when I read the Reckoners trilogy I had no idea about his cosmere books.

[@akm9367]

I’m here after reading elantris, it’s my first brandon sanderson novel and I can’t wait to explore the rest of his cosmere universe!!!!!

[@NoorAhmed-nk2jq]

This is my 4 step plan for new readers: 1. Warbreaker: get a quick taste for Brandon's work (could go with Elantris here but it's been a while since I read it I can't tell for sure if it works as well) 2. Mistborn : now that you are in the door time to see the intricate storytelling of a Brandon epic. 3. Stormlight archive: after mistborn, you are hooked now and you will go through SA books so fast 4. Other brandon works: well now you are stuck with the rest of us waiting for the next SA book, you will read anything with Brandon's name on it hehe!

[@nishantsaloki]

Hi Brian I am a Book lover and coincidently, I never got to read you. And now I have just started reading Mistborn 1 and I am hooked. I have completed part 1 and now I see in this video that you recommend the same, to start with mistborn 1. Good to hear that.

[@curiousdoodler5509]

I like to recommend Emperor's Soul first. I think it's a perfect snap shot of Sanderson writing. The length of others can be intimidating and reading Emperor's Soul convinced me the writing was good enough to invest my time in one of the longer stories.

[@paulregan9304]

I read Emperors soul this week for the first time not knowing what to expect and came away really impressed even after reading his other big series. It was so strange to see him tell a cohesive story in just over 100 pages when I've been used to ten times that haha

[@kalcheus]

100% this

[@knightonart8886]

It's a freaking masterpiece😎

[@frankadams4792]

Have to agree, Emperor's Soul is one of my favorites by him.

[@FritzKissa]

Would've been my recommendation as well.

[@gowestyoungman8184]

I'd say Elantris is a great place to start, for the reasons you listed but also because I genuinely think Hrathen is one of the most interesting characters you've done; he was easily the standout in Elantris for me.

[@ahmetakcinar9945]

In Turkey, we can't even START Cosmere Series because of Publishers House. And If you see your books, I think you'll don't read. Why? Translation period, type size, letter quality... You write a Stormlight Archive book approximately 3 years, Publishers House translate it approximately 2 years. So, what should we do now?

[@sirgerald6846]

Get english version

[@ozgury]

@@sirgerald6846 thats not the affordable option. Look at the Dollar vs Turkish Lira. And not everyone in our Country knows English. Sorry but we need his hand on this one. He can choose Turkish publisher. Current one is terrible at everything..

[@gabba1gabba1hey]

@@ozgury he probably cant choose the Turkish publisher as it is likely licensed through his American one

[@manuelagalarza3744]

OMG I almost forgot how awesome Skyward was. Can't wait for the next book!

[@eleanorjones26407]

same

[@lornagall8318]

Read Skyward in a big gulp - amazing and I can’t wait for the third one. Jumped to the Way of Kings next -holy sh*t it is stunning. I am just in awe of your talent sir.

[@KenzieKez97]

My partner is a massive fan and started me on Skyward, Mistborn, and then Stormlight and I'm so grateful I did Stormlight last as it's by far my absolute favourite!

[@addi6989]

I started with Skyward and was completely hooked with Brandon Sanderson. Then I went with Mistborn.

[@vjan.1939]

The standalones are underrated Everyone starts with Mistborn or Skyward

[@kurtz9999]

your pfp Vin☺️

[@addi6989]

@@kurtz9999 Well of course. Fantastic book, I must say.

[@Todiros]

From all of his books that I've read, Skyward is probably my least favorite. I started with Stormlight so everything afterward was a bit bland, to be honest. It really does depend on the reader.

[@addi6989]

@@Todiros *GASP* Its my favorite, but I respect your opinion.

[@adamwhite6226]

Just finished Way of Kings, my first Sanderson book and immediately bought the rest of the series. Such an awesome world and great characters! 10/10 would recommend (based on 1.25 of the books so far)

[@Ryuksgelus]

Steelhart basically sounds like a YA version of the Boys.

[@elizaearhart4533]

It actually kind of is IMO. I loved it so much when it first came out and realizing it was the same author as Mistborn blew my mind. But it’s got all the revenge elements and the super powers, but if I remember correctly it has a more dystopian feeling without going too horribly dystopian

[@lordofdarkness4204]

That is exactly what it is though. They are very similar, except there are only supervillains.

[@travanosymonette9079]

I ended up reading all the Stormlight Archive books first, and fell in love. Then I read the Mistborn series wanting more Sanderson books to read. I really loved Mistborn. I gained trust reading Stormlight, but it was solidified with the Mistborn series. I'm currently listening to the Elantris audio book. Nearing the end with almost 4 hours left. Ironically, I think I like Elantris even more than Mistborn (which I love Mistborn). I would recommend Mistborn first, then Elantris, then Stormlight as of now as those are the ones I've read so far. I will be reading your other books as well!

[@ricardonichols6109]

For me I started with the steelheart series.

[@J.Schooley]

You can tell that Sanderson's true passion is writing. That's why he's the best. It's easy to tell when someone truly enjoys doing something...usually when they won't shut up about something and Sando sure does ramble on about books and writing haha

[@rafemalach2744]

If a separate guy wrote way of Kings, Mistborn and Skyward/steelheart they'd be my three favourite authors.

[@TheJehu]

I am so glad to have discovered Brandon Sanderson's books! I started with Mistborn right after I finished reading all of the Witcher books and I discovered Mistborn by just Googling "best fantasy novels". The idea of the book being a heist in a dark ruler controlled world sounded awesome and I'm so glad I read it. Now, I've read all of the Cosmere books and I plan on starting Skyward next!

[@sirgog]

I've always told people to start with The Emperor's Soul, because it is outstanding, self-contained, and short. 4 hour audiobook, by the end of which they'll either be a fan of yours, or they'll know that your style doesn't work for them and won't need to try anything else.

[@mweepigeon]

I used to pitch Mistborn as a start, but I switched to The Emperor's Soul since it's so short and self contained, yet it's one of his later works and has excellent characterization as well as a good glimpse into his worldbuilding capabilities

[@isabellarussosavoldi1702]

i started with mistborn and couldn't think of a better pick! i am now finally reading stormlight and it's been the best

[@dumbsocrates]

As much as I love Stormlight (Oathbringer's climax is one of the best moments in any medium ever), I think the most well written things in the Cosmere are "Warbreaker" and "The Emperor's Soul". They're both so underappreciated for their beauty. Love em.

[@mercordi3818]

I just finished the Emperor’s soul!! It’s amazing!! I love the main character, her interactions, humor and most of all the way she thinks of the world! A masterpiece!🥰

[@josemanuelserna8963]

Hi Brandon. First of all, thank you for your books! Your stories are really helping me a lot struggling with my current difficult life. I also think you should include “The wheel of time” into your recommendations. I just started your first book in the series “The gathering storm” and it is amazing. I don’t want this story to reach the end. Thanks from Spain, we really appreciate you here. Jose

[@lisamaddox8564]

The Way of Kings was the first book I read by you outside of your finishing the Wheel of Time. I checked it out from the library and quickly realized I needed more time and bought it from Barnes and Noble. It was fantastic! And shortly after I bought it Words of Radiance came out and I was hooked. It lead me to Mistborn, Elantris, and Warbreaker. I finished WoK for the third time and am currently reading WoR of the third time as well. When I am done I will read Oathbringer again.

[@peecis69]

Mistborn was the way for me, highly recommended. Got hooked ever since

[@plasmamuffin1320]

This is my recommended cosmere reading order, as someone who's read all the books: All short stories and novellas(as far as I know) are contained in arcanum unbounded Elantris The hope of elantris(short story) The emperor's soul(novella) Mistborn(sometimes called mistborn: The final empire) The well of ascension The hero of ages The eleventh metal(short story) Mistborn: secret history You can read the mistborn books before elantris, if you want. Warbreaker The way of kings Words of radiance Edgedancer(novella) Oathbringer Rhythm of war The alloy of law Shadows of self The bands of mourning Tress of the emerald sea The lost metal All other stories in arcanum unbounded can be read in any order.

[@irwinwinaris9800]

I've recently discovered your books and thoroughly enjoying them! Funnily enough I started with the two Skyward books(huge scifi fan), then I discovered you wrote epic fantasy (for most its probably the other way around). Finished Elantris and am now reading The Final Empire on kindle and The Way of Kings on audible while commuting. Awesome stuff and I like this youtube channel, rare for an author to share so much behind the scenes and their thoughts about writing, let alone tips and faqs. Keep it up!

[@alec187]

I started with the way of kings and I love that I did... it was a challenge but once I got used to the just the sheer grandness of stormlight, it made reading his other books easy.

[@KevinTheDane]

I started with Way of Kings (audiobook), and it's still my favorite. BUT, I did have to listen to the first three chapters twice, because so much was going on, and there were like a hundred people. For that reason, I always recommend folks to start with Mistborn/The Final Empire. It's easier to get started with, it's a great story, and if you're not really into the Cosmere afterwards, it is still a good standalone story. :) After WoK and then The Final Empire, I just knew I had to go back and start over from Elantris, to get the Full Experience. Cosmere is just sooooo goooood.

[@ochoheido]

I love that you write all sorts of different stuff within awesome, bad-ass sci-fi/fantasy! Sometimes I want more romance and humor (Warbreaker), sometimes I want more action (Legion), sometimes I want to disappear into another world (Stormlight) - I know I'll have a good time with a Sanderson book.

[@bunny_0288]

I started with the Skyward series two weeks ago, and I've already read all 3 main novels and one of the novellas. I can't wait for the next one! It was so good. M-Bot is one of my favorite characters of all time. And I want my own Doomslug. I've thoroughly enjoyed this series so much. I can't wait to finish the novellas, and I'm anxiously awaiting the fourth book. I'm planning on reading Mistborn next as my introduction into the Cosmere.

[@BlackRose3610]

You are the best author of this generation

[@bloodycheeseman2]

I haven't been able to properly sit down and read a book in years, I've tried here and there but only got a chapter or two in before setting it down. When I discovered your Stormlight Archives series in August I could not put it down, it reignited my love for reading and I started the second book last week. I love the characters, the writing is wonderful and the world is so expansive, unique and interesting. You've done an amazing job with that series and I'm so glad it got me back into reading, even though it's the only thing I'll read right now, it's a start to waking up the bookworm within.

[@luigi0654]

A few years back, before knowing anything about Sanderson, I read mistborn and I felt in love with it. I consumed the trilogy and it became an instant favorite of mine. I then finished the 2nd era of Mistborn and this year I 've started the Steelheart and Stormlight Archive series and I must say, I'm pretty exited to read all of his novels.

[@RK-is1xp]

I was so glad to see this video pop up! I've had a bad day and this video instantly made it better. :)

[@RK-is1xp]

Also inception is a great film agreed

[@elizabethsullivan1894]

I always go with the principle that if the person likes sci-fi best, I recommend Reckoners--it's an easy read and it's a pretty accessible genre that most people are at least vaguely familiar with. If they like fantasy best, I recommend Mistborn.

[@NathienSK]

Talking about "What if the Dark lord won?" - Tyranny videogame did it well.

[@willford7717]

It's interesting Brandon highlights how much his writing grows from Elantris to Mistborn, because while he's not wrong - the first third is quite slow, the magic system is fairly ethereal, and I found the pacing of time quite jarring - it's just a testament to how prolific he is, because Elantris is still a superb book in it's own right. Finishing up The Final Empire, I can see so clearly the improvements, yet I haven't felt a tinge of regret in how much I enjoyed Elantris. Growing pains and all, it's still a cracking novel.

[@TrevorFlorence]

I started with Mistborn. My wife has a tradition of purchasing me a new book for Christmas. She got me the paper-back Mistborn Trilogy I want to say in 2012. I had never heard of Sanderson. I waited to start reading the series until I had the flu one day. I was amazed and spent the day reading. Since then I've read everything with the exception of the Infinity Blade and MTG tie-in books.

[@luxsylphrena3666]

My first of Sanderson's works was The Way of Kings, and it was exactly what I needed - I had been an avid reader early on (elementary school into early middle), and fantasy, especially ya epic fantasy. I'd fallen out of reading as a hobby for a few years, but I needed books to read for my grade 11 English class, which heavily encouraged personal reading. I had a fairly new friend who himself was already into the cosmere, and I knew he liked similar books to what I had loved reading before. I asked for a recommendation, got The Way of Kings at the top of a list of recommendations (mistborn was also mentioned), and it was exactly what I needed - I just couldn't put the book down, and it absolutely revitalized my love for reading like nothing else at the time could.

[@samueldelsol8101]

I started at Mistborn and ready enjoyed it! But having read The way of Kings and its continuations, I must say that your writing style improved immensely and your character writing became incredibly good! Your work brought me some great entertainment, so thank you Brandon!

[@BlueLion364]

Thanks Brandon. Those are a lot of good ideas. I've got one more. I call it the Star Wars approach. Start with Wax and Wayne, just because those books and characters are just so much darned fun and give a great introduction to Scadrial. Then circle back and do Mistborn 1 to get the backstory. Then knock out the stand alone Cosmere books so that you can start picking up larger picture stuff when you read Stormlight.

[@davidwebb7104]

I started with Mistborn and thought those were the best books I had ever read. Then I read Way of Kings and no book has ever pulled on every emotion I have like that. In my opinion, the Stormlight Archive is unparalleled. Just beyond incredible.

[@zaboomba6635]

I started off with the emperor’s soul on a whim, was absolutely stunned by it, showed it to my friend who read it and felt the same, and now we’re both reading mistborn!

[@maxcook3756]

I started with stormlight first and got hooked. When your talking about making sure readers know you can finish/end a book all I heard was journey before destination.

[@lardomcfarty9866]

Greetings from Romania- i started with the reckoners, read the complete wheel of time, and am now on the stormlight archive.

[@mariana_reads]

My first Sanderson book was Skyward. I am now in The Well Of Ascension. In my third Sanderson book and I have no regrets. Buying the Mistborn box set was the most clever impulsive I have ever made. Skyward is a incredible sci fi book, one of my favorites from the genre. But Mistborn? I know I will forever love this series and I can’t wait for Christmas because I am buying the box set for Stormlight. I can’t wait! I truly recommend his book to everyone. His stories are so intricate and complex yet accessible to everyone. This man is a literary genius!

[@mirjanbouma]

I didn't know you had your own channel! I freaking LOVED Elantris. I cannot put into words how much I enjoyed it. The rest of your books are on my wishlist! Love from the Netherlands.

[@omerapl3511]

it's doesn't matter which book you're gonna start, you're gonna fall in love with Brandon's books right away!

[@22ccor]

I stumbled into Bandon's work after needing something to read after I finished the two Kingkiller Chronical books by Rothfuss - I've given up waiting for finale book, Door of Stone... I agree with Brandon's assessment and description/development of his writing. I started/completed the stormlight series and then needed more of his amazing cosmere, as I became addicted. After reading the mistborn series, it does fall short to the standard of the aforementioned. Still entertaining, but the quality of writing/character development is not as polished. Again, still a very good series and I cannot wait to read the rest of his work as it is by far the most fun I've had. I look forward to going to bed because my treat is to read 3-4 chapters of a book of his before I slumber off and dream of living in his cosmere! Thanks Brandon, you're awesome!

[@ducky36F]

Mistborn: The Final Empire was my first book of yours and I loved it instantly.