Brandon Sanderson: where to begin?

[Leah]

I see a lot of enthusiasm for Brandon Sanderson here and elsewhere. I've never read him at all-- what is the best series or book to start with?

Thanks-- and happy new year to all! I lurk here but enjoy this group a lot.

[[deleted user]]

Warbreaker or Elantris. Both standalones of his. Though Elantris is a bit... well, it was his very first book. And you can tell.

For series, Mistborn: The Final Empire

[terpkristin]

I've only read Elantris and the Mistborn series. Of those, I'd say Mistborn is a better book series. They were my introduction to Brandon Sanderson, along with his work on the Wheel of Time series.

[Joe]

I liked Mistborn and loved the 4 the Mistborn book. I'm currently reading the Way of Kings and it is outstanding halfway through.

[Matthew]

Personally I'd say read them in publication order. I read the Mistborn series before Elantris. And I think I would have enjoyed Elantris more if I had read it first.

The only exception is Alloy of Law. If you like the Mistborn series as much as I did, then I'd say read it as soon as you finish the original trilogy.

[Ryan]

I would go with Mistborn to start. The magic system in this book is wonderful.

[Leah]

Thanks, all! I think I'll start with Mistborn.

[Keith]

Ive just finished his Mistborn series which begins with The Final Empire. It stands on it's own as a great book, however I'm sure you'll want to keep reading the series.

[Keith]

Matthew wrote: The only exception is Alloy of Law. If you like the Mistborn series as much as I did, then I'd say read it as soon as you finish the original trilogy.

Do you recommend The Alloy of Law? I've just finished the series and have heard mixed reports about this one...

[Michael]

Personally...I would start with Mistborn - it is a strong series and highly representative of his style.

[Jim]

I hear great things about The Way of Kings and plan to read it very soon. The Mistborn series is one of my all time favorites. The Alloy of Law was a fun continuation of the Mistborn world. I would not recommend starting with his early stuff. The Mistborn books would be a good place to start.

Cheers, Jim

[[deleted user]]

Jim wrote: "I would not recommend starting with his early stuff. The Mistborn books would be a good place to start."

The only reason I'd suggest starting with Warbreaker is because it's still free on his website. And it provides a good feel for his style.