Brandon Sanderson has become a household name in fantasy literature, but he's never forgotten the authors who inspired him. Known for his generosity in the publishing world, Sanderson often encourages aspiring writers to read voraciously. However, he's quick to note that not every book will click with every reader. His advice? Explore widely and follow your own tastes.
For fans curious about what fuels Sanderson's imagination, he's compiled a list of recommendations on his website's FAQ page, specifically aimed at students and budding authors. He even marks certain titles as "clean" fantasy, reflecting his personal preference to avoid explicit content. Here are five of the best novels and series Sanderson suggests, each offering something unique.
Memory, Sorrow, & Thorn by Tad Williams
Sanderson praises Tad Williams' work broadly, but his epic series Memory, Sorrow, & Thorn stands out. Spanning nine novels, including prequels and sequels, this series heavily influenced George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire. Sanderson warns that Williams' prose can be "long-winded," a style he personally enjoys but that might deter some readers early on. The story follows a young man named Simon who is thrust into a battle against ancient magical forces, facing immense challenges and losses along the way. It's a classic epic fantasy that rewards patience.
Dragonsbane by Barbara Hambly
Sanderson has repeatedly cited Dragonsbane as a pivotal book in his journey to fantasy. He loves that it defies expectations—featuring a middle-aged witch and a pragmatic lord rather than typical young heroes. The plot involves Jenny Waynest and John Aversin being summoned south to confront a powerful dragon, only to find political intrigue and a rival witch complicating their mission. Originally published in 1985, this novel has found new life thanks to Sanderson's endorsement, and Hambly has continued the story with sequels.
The Dagger and the Coin Series by Daniel Abraham
Sanderson recommends "anything by Daniel Abraham," but The Dagger and the Coin is an excellent starting point. This five-book series, published from 2011 to 2016, is an epic fantasy with multiple viewpoints, often compared to A Song of Ice and Fire—fitting, since Abraham is a friend and collaborator of Martin. The series explores two destructive forces: the dagger (war) and the coin (economic instability), offering a fresh take on fantasy conflict. Abraham is also known for co-writing The Expanse under the pen name James S.A. Corey, with new projects on the horizon.
The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin's The Inheritance Trilogy begins with The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms, a novel set in a richly imagined world drawing from diverse cultures. Sanderson admires Jemisin's hard magic systems, similar to his own, though her Broken Earth trilogy is often the more direct comparison. Both trilogies showcase Jemisin's lyrical prose and compelling characters. For Sanderson fans or anyone seeking innovative fantasy, Jemisin's work is a must-read.
The Realm of the Elderlings by Robin Hobb
Finally, Sanderson unreservedly recommends "anything by Robin Hobb, but particularly the Fitz books." This refers to Hobb's sprawling 16-book Realm of the Elderlings series, which follows the life of FitzChivalry Farseer. Known for deep character development and emotional depth, these books are a cornerstone of modern fantasy. Sanderson's endorsement highlights Hobb's mastery, making this series a perfect addition to any fantasy lover's shelf.
These recommendations offer a diverse range of styles and themes, from classic epic quests to innovative magic systems. Whether you're a longtime Sanderson fan or new to fantasy, these books are sure to captivate. For more reading inspiration, check out our quick fantasy reads or explore ranked series for more ideas.
