Brandon Sanderson’s fantasy novels, including the iconic Mistborn series and The Stormlight Archive, are part of a vast shared fictional universe known as the Cosmere. While delving into this expansive universe may seem daunting, understanding its intricacies can enrich the reading experience for fans of modern fantasy.
Brandon Sanderson’s journey as a fantasy author began with his debut novel, “Elantris,” which marked the inception of the Cosmere. Since then, he has cultivated a dedicated fanbase through his engaging storytelling and interactive engagement with readers across various platforms.
Understanding the Cosmere
The Cosmere is a fictional universe comprising novels, short stories, novellas, and graphic novels across different subgenres of fantasy. Although each series and standalone work within the Cosmere can be enjoyed independently, they are interconnected by a shared creation myth and cosmology. Characters and overarching narratives occasionally intersect, offering readers glimpses of a larger, interconnected world.
Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere Works
Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere works encompass various series and standalone novels, each contributing to the overarching narrative of the universe. Key series include:
Mistborn: A series set on the planet Scadrial, featuring two eras of novels exploring different time periods and characters.
The Stormlight Archive: Sanderson’s acclaimed epic fantasy series, known for its expansive world-building and intricate plotlines.
Elantris: Sanderson’s debut novel, set in the eponymous city of Elantris, explores themes of magic and politics.
Warbreaker: A standalone novel featuring unique magic systems and intricate world-building.
Connecting the Cosmere
The Cosmere is connected through recurring themes, characters, and celestial entities that transcend individual stories. Characters like Hoid traverse different worlds, hinting at a larger narrative weaving through the fabric of the universe.
Reading Order
While there is no strict reading order for the Cosmere, Sanderson recommends starting with the Mistborn trilogy before delving into other series and standalone works. He suggests the following reading order:
Mistborn Trilogy: “The Final Empire,” “The Well of Ascension,” “The Hero of Ages”
Warbreaker
The Stormlight Archive: “The Way of Kings,” “Words of Radiance,” “Edgedancer” (novella), “Oathbringer,” “Dawnshard” (novella), “Rhythm of War”
Mistborn Era 2: “The Alloy of Law,” “Shadows of Self,” “The Bands of Mourning,” “The Lost Metal”
Other Standalone Novels: “Elantris,” “Yumi and the Nightmare Painter,” “The Sunlit Man”
Navigating Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere universe offers readers a rich tapestry of interconnected stories and characters. By immersing oneself in this fantastical realm, readers can uncover hidden connections and unravel the mysteries of the Cosmere, making for an enriching and rewarding reading experience.
FAQ
What is the Cosmere?
The Cosmere is a shared fictional universe created by bestselling author Brandon Sanderson, encompassing a collection of novels, short stories, novellas, and graphic novels across various subgenres of fantasy. It features interconnected narratives, characters, and themes that span multiple series and standalone works.
How are Brandon Sanderson’s works connected in the Cosmere?
Brandon Sanderson’s works in the Cosmere are connected by a unified creation myth and cosmology. Recurring themes, characters, and celestial entities transcend individual stories, offering glimpses of a larger narrative weaving through the fabric of the universe. Characters like Hoid traverse different worlds, hinting at deeper connections.
What are some key series and standalone novels in the Cosmere?
Key series in the Cosmere include Mistborn, The Stormlight Archive, and Elantris. Standalone novels like Warbreaker also contribute to the overarching narrative. Each series and standalone work explores unique worlds, magic systems, and themes while contributing to the broader Cosmere mythology.
What is the recommended reading order for Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere works?
While there is no strict reading order for the Cosmere, Brandon Sanderson recommends starting with the Mistborn trilogy before exploring other series and standalone novels. The suggested reading order includes the Mistborn trilogy, Warbreaker, The Stormlight Archive, Mistborn Era 2, and other standalone novels.
How can readers best navigate Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere universe?
Readers can navigate the Cosmere universe by immersing themselves in the recommended reading order and paying attention to recurring themes, characters, and connections across different works. Engaging with the fan community and supplemental materials like Brandon Sanderson’s annotations can also enhance the reading experience.
Are there any hidden Easter eggs or secrets in the Cosmere?
Yes, the Cosmere is filled with hidden Easter eggs, secrets, and subtle references that reward attentive readers. Brandon Sanderson often incorporates foreshadowing and interconnected story elements that can be discovered upon close examination of the text. Fans enjoy theorizing and discussing these discoveries within the fan community.
Will there be future additions to the Cosmere?
Brandon Sanderson continues to expand the Cosmere with new novels, series, and standalone works. Future additions to the Cosmere include upcoming novels such as Mistborn Era 3, Elantris sequels, The Stormlight Archive Era 2, and a new series called Dragonsteel. Sanderson’s prolific writing ensures that the Cosmere universe will continue to grow and evolve over time.