The Way of Kings
The Way of Kings - 2010
If you want Sanderson at his most ambitious. The Stormlight Archive is his magnum opus, but each book is 1,000+ pages. Commit accordingly.
Beginner guide
The best Brandon Sanderson book to start with
A big catalog is intimidating. Here's exactly where to begin - and what to skip first. - Updated June 2026
Why start here
Allomancy - the magic system where you swallow and 'burn' metals for different powers - is Sanderson's most elegant creation. It has clear rules that pay off brilliantly.
The premise is irresistible: what if the Dark Lord won a thousand years ago, and now a crew of thieves plans to overthrow him?
It is a complete, satisfying trilogy. You do not need to commit to a 10-book series to get a full story.
It showcases everything Sanderson does well: intricate plotting, creative magic, and twists that recontextualize everything you have read.
Other good entry points
Depending on what you're in the mood for.
Warbreaker
Warbreaker - 2009
If you want a standalone. Free on his website, clever magic system, and a good preview of his style without a series commitment.
The Emperor's Soul
The Emperor's Soul - 2012
If you want a novella. Won the Hugo, takes two hours to read, and demonstrates his magic-system brilliance in miniature.
Elantris
Elantris - 2005
If you want his debut. Rougher than his later work but still satisfying, with a self-contained story and interesting political dynamics.
What not to start with (yet)
Great books - just not first.
The Way of Kings - 2010
Not because it is bad - it is excellent. But at 1,007 pages with a slow start, it is a punishing entry point if you are not already sold on Sanderson.
Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians - 2007
A middle-grade comedy series. Fun for kids, but it will give you a completely wrong impression of what Sanderson is known for.
The Wheel of Time (books 12-14) - 2009
Sanderson finished Robert Jordan's series brilliantly, but starting here makes no sense. You need the previous 11 books first.
Ready to start with Mistborn: The Final Empire?
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Frequently asked questions
No. Each series stands alone. The Cosmere is a shared universe with connections between series, but they are Easter eggs, not requirements. Start with any series that interests you.
The original trilogy has a teenage protagonist and lighter content than Stormlight, so it reads as accessible adult fantasy. The sequel era (Wax and Wayne) is fully adult.
They share the same universe (the Cosmere) but are set on different planets with different magic systems. You can read them independently. Crossover references are bonuses, not prerequisites.
Contains affiliate linksUpdated June 2026