Ranking Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere Series: A Comprehensive Guide for Readers
Brandon Sanderson is a celebrated author in the world of fantasy literature, and his Cosmere series is a rich tapestry of interconnected stories across multiple novels, trilogies, and collections. As a seasoned SEO professional, I offer you a detailed guide on how to rank Sanderson’s series within his Cosmere universe, tailored to maximize reading enjoyment and appreciation of his work.
Ranking the Major Series in the Cosmere
Here’s how I would rank Brandon Sanderson’s main series set in the Cosmere as of August 2023, based on my informed perspective:
1. The Stormlight Archive
Lauded as Sanderson’s magnum opus, The Stormlight Archive is an epic fantasy masterpiece. Its sprawling narrative, intricate magical systems, and deeply developed characters and world-building make it a universally cherished work. Every facet of this series—ranging from the epic battles to the complex moral dilemmas—reflects Sanderson’s brilliance and vision. For me, this series stands above the rest in the Cosmere.
2. Mistborn Era 1
The original Mistborn trilogy, starting with The Final Empire, is a fan favorite. It introduced readers to Sanderson’s signature elements like his complex magic system and morally intricate characters. The tightly woven narrative and the emotional depth of its characters make this series essential reading for any serious fan of fantasy literature.
3. Elantris
Based on its unique magic system and morally complex characters, Elantris is a standout in Sanderson’s oeuvre. This stand-alone novel offers a glimpse into Sanderson’s thematic depth and his ability to create original and engaging worlds. It is a strong contender for the top tier of his Cosmere series.
4. Warbreaker
Moving away from the main series chronology, Warbreaker stands out for its exploration of themes of religion, sacrifice, and the nature of divine power. This standalone novel is a delightful addition to the Cosmere, offering a distinct narrative and setting.
5. Mistborn Era 2
The Mistborn series’ follow-up, beginning with The Alloy of Law, expands the scope of the Cosmere while maintaining the appeal of the original trilogy. It introduces new characters and settings, offering a satisfying continuation of the story without losing the charm and intrigue of the initial series.
6. Arcanum Unbounded
Despite being a collection of short stories and novellas, Aracnum Unbounded provides valuable insights into the broader interconnected universe of the Cosmere. These stories offer depth and context, enriching the reader’s understanding of Sanderson’s world-building. While not a primary storyline, they are essential for a comprehensive experience of the Cosmere.
Reading Order for Maximum Impact
Giving you the recommended reading order for a more enjoyable and impactful experience of the Cosmere, I suggest the following:
1. Elantris
Starting with Elantris can help you appreciate the breadth of Sanderson’s storytelling and his ability to create profound, unique worlds. It serves as a perfect introduction to his distinctive writing style.
2. Mistborn: Series 1
Moving to the original Mistborn trilogy will provide you with a solid foundation and a deep understanding of the intricacies of Sanderson’s magic system and character development. It’s the perfect choice for diving into the main story of the Cosmere.
3. Mistborn Secret History
Before delving into the second Mistborn series, you might want to read the short story Mistborn: Secret History from Arcanum Unbounded. This story offers additional context and background, enhancing your appreciation of the characters and their motivations.
4. Mistborn: Series 2 – Wax and Wayne
Continuing with the second Mistborn series, The Alloy of Law, you’ll find a richer and more complex narrative. This series explores new themes while retaining the charm of the original trilogy.
5. Warbreaker
Following up with Warbreaker will allow you to explore a different aspect of Sanderson’s world-building. This standalone novel is a delightful and thought-provoking read, offering a distinct narrative and setting.
6. The Stormlight Archive
Lastly, reading The Stormlight Archive will be a monumental task but an immensely rewarding one. The series’ intricate narrative, expansive world-building, and deep characters make it a masterpiece. It is the pinnacle of Sanderson’s work and a must-read for any serious fantasy fan.
7. Arcanum Unbounded
After completing Sanderson’s main series, you can return to Arcanum Unbounded. These short stories and novellas offer additional depth and context, enriching your understanding of the Cosmere and Sanderson’s unique universe.
These recommendations are not just to optimize reading enjoyment but to fully appreciate the interconnectedness and depth of Sanderson’s masterful storytelling in the Cosmere.