Best Cosmere Reading Order: A Comprehensive Guide to Navigating the Cosmere Universe

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the captivating universe of the Cosmere? If you’re new to the works of renowned author Brandon Sanderson, you may find yourself wondering about the best Cosmere reading order for books. Fear not! In this guide, we’ll delve into the intricate tapestry of the Cosmere and provide you with multiple reading order options to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a recommended order, a chronological approach, or a sequence based on the book’s release date, we’ve got you covered!

Best Cosmere Reading Order

The Best Cosmere reading order is a subjective topic, as every reader has different preferences. However, we can provide a comprehensive guide that takes into account the author’s intended experience and narrative connections between the books. Here’s a suggested reading order for the Cosmere series:

1. Elantris:

Begin your Cosmere journey with Sanderson’s debut novel, “Elantris.” This standalone story introduces you to the magical world of Arelon and lays the foundation for the Cosmere’s overarching narrative.

2. “White Sand” Prose Version (Unpublished)

The chronological order begins with the unpublished prose version of “White Sand.” This novel follows the story of Khrissalla and introduces you to the world of Taldain, where the events of “White Sand” take place.

3. “The Hope of Elantris” (Short Story)

After “Elantris,” delve into “The Hope of Elantris,” a short story found in the “Arcanum Unbounded” collection. This story provides a further glimpse into the events following the conclusion of the main “Elantris” novel.

4. “The Emperor’s Soul” (Novella)

Next, experience “The Emperor’s Soul,” a novella set on the world of Sel. It explores the art of forgery and the power of soul-stamping. This story takes place after the events of “Elantris” and provides additional context to the Cosmere.

5. “Mistborn: The Final Empire”

Transition to the world of Scadrial with “Mistborn: The Final Empire.” This is the starting point for the Mistborn series, where you’ll be introduced to the world of Allomancy and the struggles against the Lord Ruler. Continue the Mistborn series with “The Well of Ascension,” where political intrigue and power struggles intensify. Witness the consequences of the previous book’s events and the challenges faced by the characters in their quest for a better future.

Dive into the Mistborn series with “Mistborn: The Final Empire,” followed by “The Well of Ascension” and “The Hero of Ages.” This epic trilogy explores a world where certain individuals possess Allomantic and Feruchemical powers, unraveling the intricate plots of political intrigue and rebellion.

6. “The Well of Ascension”

Continue your Mistborn journey with “The Well of Ascension.” This book delves deeper into the political intrigues and the fight against the oppressive regime.

7. “The Hero of Ages”

Conclude the Mistborn trilogy with “The Hero of Ages.” Witness the epic finale of Vin and the crew’s fight against Ruin and Preservation, as well as the consequences that shape the world of Scadrial.

8. “The Eleventh Metal” (Short Story)

Take a brief detour and read “The Eleventh Metal,” a short story found in the “Arcanum Unbounded” collection. It provides additional insight into the character oBest Cosmere Reading Orderf Kelsier from the Mistborn series.

9. “Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell” (Novella)

Venture into the novella “Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell,” set on the world of Threnody. Explore a dangerous forest haunted by malevolent spirits and witness the struggles of the protagonist, Silence Montane.

10. “Secret History” (Novella)

Return to Scadrial with “Secret History,” a novella that delves into the hidden secrets and events that occurred behind the scenes of the Mistborn trilogy. This story contains major spoilers and is best read after completing the trilogy.

11. “Warbreaker”

Transition to the world of Nalthis with “Warbreaker.” This standalone novel introduces you to a world where gods and their Breath, a form of Investiture, play a significant role. It also serves as a bridge between the earlier books and the Stormlight Archive.

12. “The Stormlight Archive: The Way of Kings”

Enter the sprawling epic fantasy series with “The Way of Kings,” the first book in “The Stormlight Archive.” Immerse yourself in the richly detailed world of Roshar, where political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and a battle for the future unfold.

13. “The Stormlight Archive: Words of Radiance”

Continue the journey in “Words of Radiance,” where the stakes are raised, and the destiny of the world hangs in the balance. Follow the stories of Kaladin, Shallan, and Dalinar as their paths intertwine and the mysteries of Roshar deepen.

14. “The Stormlight Archive: Oathbringer”

Experience the third installment of “The Stormlight Archive” with “Oathbringer.” As the conflict intensifies, secrets are revealed, and the characters’ destinies converge, prepare for a breathtaking continuation of this epic saga.

15. “The Stormlight Archive: Rhythm of War”

The fourth book in “The Stormlight Archive,” “Rhythm of War,” brings new challenges and revelations as the world of Roshar teeters on the brink of chaos. Dive deeper into the lives of the Radiants and witness the unfolding of prophecies.

Recommended Reading Order for Cosmere

Are you ready to embark on an epic journey through the interconnected worlds of Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere reading order? With a vast array of novels, novellas, and short stories, it can be challenging to determine the best reading order. In this guide, we present a recommended reading order that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the intricacies of the Cosmere reading order universe.

16. “Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection”

“Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection” is a treasure trove for Cosmere enthusiasts, offering a compilation of novellas, short stories, and additional content from various Cosmere reading order worlds. This anthology provides valuable insights into different aspects of the Cosmere and expands upon the overall narrative. Let’s explore some of the notable pieces included in this collection:

“The Eleventh Metal” (Mistborn Short Story)

“The Eleventh Metal” is a short story set in the Mistborn universe, specifically during the events of the original Mistborn trilogy. It follows Kelsier, one of the key characters in the series, shedding light on his background, motivations, and the discovery of an additional metal within the Allomantic system.

“Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell” (Novella)

Set on the dangerous world of Threnody, “Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell” introduces us to Silence Montane, a determined innkeeper who must navigate the perilous forests and confront dark forces. This novella provides a glimpse into a new corner of the Cosmere and offers a thrilling standalone adventure.

“Sixth of the Dusk” (Novella)

“Sixth of the Dusk” takes readers to a remote island called Patji, where a trapper named Dusk embarks on a perilous journey to protect his homeland from mysterious creatures known as Aviar. This novella explores a unique corner of the Cosmere reading order and introduces readers to a richly imagined world.

“Allomancer Jak and the Pits of Eltania” (Mistborn Short Story)

This humorous short story features Allomancer Jak, a charismatic and eccentric character from the Mistborn universe. Readers are taken on a delightful and entertaining adventure alongside Jak as he embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets of the Pits of Eltania.

“White Sand” (Graphic Novel Trilogy)

“White Sand” is a graphic novel trilogy that presents a gripping story set on the world of Taldain. It follows the struggles of Kenton, a young sand master with the ability to manipulate the mystical sand. This visual format adds a unique dimension to the Cosmere reading order experience, blending intricate artwork with Sanderson’s storytelling.

“Emperor’s Soul” (Short Story)

In “Emperor’s Soul,” readers are transported to the world of Sel, where a master Forger named Shai uses her skills to recreate the soul of an emperor. This thought-provoking story delves into themes of identity, artistry, and the power of perception.

“Secret History” (Mistborn Novella)

“Secret History” offers a captivating glimpse into the hidden depths of the Mistborn trilogy, revealing secrets, surprises, and expanding upon the lore of the Cosmere. This novella provides a unique perspective on the events that have transpired and adds layers of complexity to the overarching narrative.

“Stormlight Archive: Rhythm of War”

While “Rhythm of War” is not a part of “Arcanum Unbounded,” it is worth mentioning as it is the latest installment in the Stormlight Archive series. Continuing the epic saga on the world of Roshar, this book delves deeper into the lives of the Knights Radiant and unveils new mysteries, prophecies, and conflicts.

“Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection” and the included stories and novellas offer readers a chance to explore different corners of the Cosmere, expanding their understanding of the interconnected universe. Whether you are a dedicated Cosmere fan or a newcomer, this collection provides a delightful and enriching experience.

Conclusion

Exploring the Cosmere universe is an immersive and rewarding experience for fans of epic fantasy. With its rich world-building, intricate magic systems, and interconnected narrative, Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere series captivates readers and keeps them eagerly turning the pages.

To make the most of your Cosmere reading order journey, it is recommended to follow an organized Cosmere reading order. Starting with “Elantris” and progressing through the Mistborn series, “Warbreaker,” and the Stormlight Archive, you’ll uncover the grand tapestry of the Cosmere reading order universe. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse characters, intricate plots, and surprising connections that deepen your appreciation for Sanderson’s storytelling prowess.

To enhance your exploration of the Cosmere reading order , “Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection” is a must-read. This anthology of novellas and short stories provides additional insights into different worlds within the Cosmere reading order, including Mistborn, Threnody, and Sel. From “The Eleventh Metal” to “Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell,” these stories offer glimpses into new perspectives and expand the overall narrative.