Brandon SandersonFantasy · Fiction·b. 1975
The Cosmere
The Cosmere
Ongoing series · 23 booksAbout this series
The Cosmere is the shared universe in which most of Brandon Sanderson's adult fantasy is set.
Elantris, the Mistborn novels, Warbreaker, The Stormlight Archive, the White Sand graphic novels and the standalone novels Tress of the Emerald Sea, Yumi and the Nightmare Painter, The Sunlit Man and Isles of the Emberdark all take place on different planets within it, each with its own culture and its own magic system drawn from the same underlying cosmology.
Recurring figures and a slowly unfolding larger story link the books together, but Sanderson has said every series can be read on its own and that the connections are a bonus rather than a prerequisite. Entries below are ordered by publication.
Subseries
Frequently asked questions
What is the recommended reading order for the Cosmere books?
While many Cosmere books can be read as standalones, a common recommendation is to start with 'Elantris' or 'Mistborn: The Final Empire' to grasp foundational concepts before moving to 'The Stormlight Archive' for the overarching narrative. The 'Arcanum Unbounded' collection contains novellas that fill in gaps and offer additional perspectives across various worlds.
Are there connections between different Cosmere series?
Yes, all series within the Cosmere are set in a shared universe, featuring interconnected magic systems, recurring characters who travel between worlds, and an overarching cosmic conflict that slowly unfolds across the various narratives. These connections become more apparent as you read more books.
What makes the Cosmere unique among fantasy series?
The Cosmere is distinguished by its meticulously crafted and consistent 'hard magic systems,' where the rules of magic are clearly defined and explored, allowing for logical progression and strategic use within the stories. This scientific approach to magic, combined with deep world-building and philosophical themes, sets it apart.