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Hoid's Storybook Collection
Wandersail
Not yet published
Expected 1 Dec 26The first meeting between Hoid and Kaladin brought us this story about Derethil and the crew of the Wandersail. As the young bridgeman wrestles with his circumstances, he receives this advice: "The purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think, but to give you questions to think upon. Too often, we forget that."
Hardcover
Expected publication December 1, 2026
About the author
Brandon Sanderson
510 books298k followersI’m Brandon Sanderson, and I write stories of the fantastic: fantasy, science fiction, and thrillers.
The release of Wind and Truth in December 2024—the fifth and final book in the first arc of the #1 New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive series—marks a significant milestone for me. This series is my love letter to the epic fantasy genre, and it’s the type of story I always dreamed epic fantasy could be. Now is a great time to get into the Stormlight Archive since the first arc, which begins with Way of Kings, is complete.
During our crowdfunding campaign for the leatherbound edition of Words of Radiance, I announced a fifth Secret Project called Isles of the Emberdark, which came out in the summer of 2025. Coming December 2025 is Tailored Realities, my non-Cosmere short story collection featuring the new novella Moment Zero.
Defiant, the fourth and final volume of the series that started with Skyward in 2018, came out in November 2023, capping an already book-filled year that saw the releases of all four Secret Projects: Tress of the Emerald Sea, The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England, Yumi and the Nightmare Painter, and The Sunlit Man. These four books were all initially offered to backers of the #1 Kickstarter campaign of all time.
November 2022 saw the release of The Lost Metal, the seventh volume in the Mistborn saga, and the final volume of the Mistborn Era Two featuring Wax & Wayne. Now that the first arc of the Stormlight Archive is wrapped up, I’ve started writing the third era of Mistborn in 2025.
Most readers have noticed that my adult fantasy novels are in a connected universe called the Cosmere. This includes The Stormlight Archive, both Mistborn series, Elantris, Warbreaker, four of the five Secret Projects, and various novellas, including The Emperor’s Soul, which won a Hugo Award in 2013. In November 2016 all of the existing Cosmere short fiction was released in one volume called Arcanum Unbounded. If you’ve read all of my adult fantasy novels and want to see some behind-the-scenes information, that collection is a must-read.
I also have three YA series: The Rithmatist (currently at one book), The Reckoners (a trilogy beginning with Steelheart), and Skyward. For young readers I also have my humorous series Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians, which had its final book, Bastille vs. the Evil Librarians, released in 2022. Many of my adult readers enjoy all of those books as well, and many of my YA readers enjoy my adult books, usually starting with Mistborn.
Additionally, I have a few other novellas that are more on the thriller/sci-fi side. These include the three stories in Legion: The Many Lives of Stephen Leeds, as well as Perfect State and Snapshot. These two novellas are also featured in 2025’s Tailored Realities. There’s a lot of material to go around!
Good starting places are Mistborn (a.k.a. The Final Empire), Skyward, Steelheart, The Emperor’s Soul, Tress of the Emerald Sea, and Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians. If you’re already a fan of big fat fantasies, you can jump right into The Way of Kings.
I was also honored to be able to complete the final three volumes of The Wheel of Time, beginning with The Gathering Storm, using Robert Jordan’s notes.
Sample chapters from all of my books are available at brandonsanderson.com—and check out the rest of my site for chapter-by-chapter annotations, deleted scenes, and more.
The release of Wind and Truth in December 2024—the fifth and final book in the first arc of the #1 New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive series—marks a significant milestone for me. This series is my love letter to the epic fantasy genre, and it’s the type of story I always dreamed epic fantasy could be. Now is a great time to get into the Stormlight Archive since the first arc, which begins with Way of Kings, is complete.
During our crowdfunding campaign for the leatherbound edition of Words of Radiance, I announced a fifth Secret Project called Isles of the Emberdark, which came out in the summer of 2025. Coming December 2025 is Tailored Realities, my non-Cosmere short story collection featuring the new novella Moment Zero.
Defiant, the fourth and final volume of the series that started with Skyward in 2018, came out in November 2023, capping an already book-filled year that saw the releases of all four Secret Projects: Tress of the Emerald Sea, The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England, Yumi and the Nightmare Painter, and The Sunlit Man. These four books were all initially offered to backers of the #1 Kickstarter campaign of all time.
November 2022 saw the release of The Lost Metal, the seventh volume in the Mistborn saga, and the final volume of the Mistborn Era Two featuring Wax & Wayne. Now that the first arc of the Stormlight Archive is wrapped up, I’ve started writing the third era of Mistborn in 2025.
Most readers have noticed that my adult fantasy novels are in a connected universe called the Cosmere. This includes The Stormlight Archive, both Mistborn series, Elantris, Warbreaker, four of the five Secret Projects, and various novellas, including The Emperor’s Soul, which won a Hugo Award in 2013. In November 2016 all of the existing Cosmere short fiction was released in one volume called Arcanum Unbounded. If you’ve read all of my adult fantasy novels and want to see some behind-the-scenes information, that collection is a must-read.
I also have three YA series: The Rithmatist (currently at one book), The Reckoners (a trilogy beginning with Steelheart), and Skyward. For young readers I also have my humorous series Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians, which had its final book, Bastille vs. the Evil Librarians, released in 2022. Many of my adult readers enjoy all of those books as well, and many of my YA readers enjoy my adult books, usually starting with Mistborn.
Additionally, I have a few other novellas that are more on the thriller/sci-fi side. These include the three stories in Legion: The Many Lives of Stephen Leeds, as well as Perfect State and Snapshot. These two novellas are also featured in 2025’s Tailored Realities. There’s a lot of material to go around!
Good starting places are Mistborn (a.k.a. The Final Empire), Skyward, Steelheart, The Emperor’s Soul, Tress of the Emerald Sea, and Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians. If you’re already a fan of big fat fantasies, you can jump right into The Way of Kings.
I was also honored to be able to complete the final three volumes of The Wheel of Time, beginning with The Gathering Storm, using Robert Jordan’s notes.
Sample chapters from all of my books are available at brandonsanderson.com—and check out the rest of my site for chapter-by-chapter annotations, deleted scenes, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Review of advance copy
This is the most “parable” of the stories in this collection. It’s also the most violent and so I don’t recommend this for young kids in the same way as the dog and the dragon or chasm friends. Steve Argyle does fantastic illustrations.
October 16, 2026
“What does the story mean?”
“It means what you want it to mean. For the purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think. But to give you questions to think upon.”
I enjoyed Wandersail as a part of the greater Cosmere. The artwork is beautiful and the story truly is thought provoking. However, I don’t know if I enjoy it as a standalone children’s book.
“It means what you want it to mean. For the purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think. But to give you questions to think upon.”
I enjoyed Wandersail as a part of the greater Cosmere. The artwork is beautiful and the story truly is thought provoking. However, I don’t know if I enjoy it as a standalone children’s book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
It is a bit short, I would have loved to see a bit more of the civilization before the conclusion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The picture book adaptation of Hoid’s story of the Wandersail to Kaladin in Chapter 57 of The Way of Kings is a great combination of Brandson Sanderson’s writing and the art of Steve Argyle. The short story of Derethil a western Rosharan king, built and sailed the titular ship to find the origin of the Voidbringers only to find the islands of the Uvara people. The Uvara appeared to be peaceable and friendly until Derethil and his men witness them kill someone that had made a mistake, in fear of displeasing their emperor. The king and his crew stormed the emperor’s palace to find only a corpse, the revelation of which sent the Uvara into chaos forcing Derethil and his crew to escape on their ship with one lone Uvara accompanying them. Though Rosharans believe the story to be a myth, many understand the underlying message of taking responsibility for one’s actions.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Probably a little morbid for a kid’s bedtime story, but I totally still read it to them. The lesson being taught is good for them to hear. I told them at the end - “helps us learn that you can’t trust everything you are told” and my son responded with “Unless it is a trusted adult!” which made me laugh - and agree!
Art throughout the book is so beautiful.
Art throughout the book is so beautiful.
Review of advance copy
I loved loved loved that this included the interaction between Hoid and Kaladin as a sort of framing device, it felt like just fully that scene getting an art version and I loved it.
This is probably the wildest, hardest and harshest story out of all four and it hit once again - this felt both in art style and the story itself the least like a children's book, too, and even knowing the story and knowing how it ends,its a slap on the face, really.
I will say, the humans in this, as an art style, wasn't my favorite, however the landscape, the water and the sky with the sunrise and all of its different coloration made up for it all the more, they were so freaking gorgeous,some of them I want on my wall as posters even.
Would recommend this as well, along with all four stories in the collection really.
This is probably the wildest, hardest and harshest story out of all four and it hit once again - this felt both in art style and the story itself the least like a children's book, too, and even knowing the story and knowing how it ends,its a slap on the face, really.
I will say, the humans in this, as an art style, wasn't my favorite, however the landscape, the water and the sky with the sunrise and all of its different coloration made up for it all the more, they were so freaking gorgeous,some of them I want on my wall as posters even.
Would recommend this as well, along with all four stories in the collection really.
October 15, 2026
“What does the story mean?”
“It means what you want it to mean. For the purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think. But to give you questions to think upon.”
The artwork by Steve Argyle really captures the depths of the story - placing it fireside, and then casting dramatic shocking images makes it feel truly that it’s being told enigmatically and you can’t but turn the next page.
Wandersail is one of those stories that sticks with you. As intended, it is thought provoking. Within the context of Stormlight it’s made all the more compelling.
To me, there is no greater simple representation or expression of accepting responsibility, coming to terms with your own actions’ consequences, and of questioning where you get your morality from.
I realise I have almost committed the faux pas that Hoid steers storytellers away from. Alas I don’t hold myself high enough to consider this review a story and so that, to me, is what I take from it.
“It means what you want it to mean. For the purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think. But to give you questions to think upon.”
The artwork by Steve Argyle really captures the depths of the story - placing it fireside, and then casting dramatic shocking images makes it feel truly that it’s being told enigmatically and you can’t but turn the next page.
Wandersail is one of those stories that sticks with you. As intended, it is thought provoking. Within the context of Stormlight it’s made all the more compelling.
To me, there is no greater simple representation or expression of accepting responsibility, coming to terms with your own actions’ consequences, and of questioning where you get your morality from.
I realise I have almost committed the faux pas that Hoid steers storytellers away from. Alas I don’t hold myself high enough to consider this review a story and so that, to me, is what I take from it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Not all picture books are necessarily for children, haha! The most lushly illustrated of the four Hoid's Storybook Collection with paintings by Steve Argyle, Wandersail is a story told by Hoid to Kaladin in The Way of Kings, about a sailor who comes upon a people who are obsessed with perfection in the name of their emperor. Murders are surprisingly tastefully rendered (maybe picture book status shied away from being bloody even though you can imagine the direction it goes...).
This one also shows Kaladin and Hoid as the frame story as well.
This one also shows Kaladin and Hoid as the frame story as well.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Of the books in Hoids Storybook collection, I liked this one better than The Girl Who Looked Up.
First, and foremost, who doesn't love art by Steve Argyle? He's talented, kind, and generous. The art is engaging and keeps the reader's interest in the story.
The story is good. I enjoyed it. Some of the phrasing was awkward and clunky, but overall, I enjoyed it.
It had a feel very similar to that old song, "One Tin Soldier."
I also love that I read this story about a sailing into a highstorm while experiencing a storm.
First, and foremost, who doesn't love art by Steve Argyle? He's talented, kind, and generous. The art is engaging and keeps the reader's interest in the story.
The story is good. I enjoyed it. Some of the phrasing was awkward and clunky, but overall, I enjoyed it.
It had a feel very similar to that old song, "One Tin Soldier."
I also love that I read this story about a sailing into a highstorm while experiencing a storm.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is the first of the illustrated books that is clearly not made for children.
Using Kaladin and Wit's encounter as a framing device, Sanderson shares with us the beautiful (and slightly disturbing) tale of the Wandersail and its crew. It's a brief (maybe too brief) morality tale, with some decent illustrations, stunning coloring, and direct connections to the world of Stormlight. In fact, enjoyment level for those unversed in the Cosmere might be limited. I, however, had an enjoyable time reading this one to my wife.
Sanderson tells the best stories.
Using Kaladin and Wit's encounter as a framing device, Sanderson shares with us the beautiful (and slightly disturbing) tale of the Wandersail and its crew. It's a brief (maybe too brief) morality tale, with some decent illustrations, stunning coloring, and direct connections to the world of Stormlight. In fact, enjoyment level for those unversed in the Cosmere might be limited. I, however, had an enjoyable time reading this one to my wife.
Sanderson tells the best stories.
October 14, 2026
A much darker story than the rest of this collection - but with an excellent lesson on authority and accountability, I think. Or perhaps it will mean something different for you. Still highly recommended, but maybe not for very sensitive children - read it first to see if it's for your child.
Read it anyway, because it's a much-needed lesson for adults right now, too, in my (not so) humble opinion.
And, as always, absolutely fantastic artwork!
Read it anyway, because it's a much-needed lesson for adults right now, too, in my (not so) humble opinion.
And, as always, absolutely fantastic artwork!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oh, I was so exited to receive these email yesterday! I'm so glad we supported the Kickstarter. Although I've already read the story in The Stormlight archive, it's still such a good story and seeing it illustrated makes all the difference! I really can't wait to see it on paper when the physical copies arrive. The art style of Steve Argyle is very good.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This story definitely had the nicest-looking artwork of the series. The story is a legendary tale of shipwreck survivors on an exotic island. It's brief, and the moral is unclear (it's explicitly stated that it's up to the reader) so in that aspect it's not very memorable. But the artwork is really nice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What beautiful artwork! It drew me into what felt like a fully fleshed out fantasy world with gorgeous costumes, a diverse cast, and unique architecture/world-building! It felt like a whole civilization and world I was unfamiliar with and just got a glimpse into, but would love to see more of.
Note to self: from The Way of Kings
Note to self: from The Way of Kings
Read
September 27, 2026Classic tale told to Kaladin by Hoid. Gives one of the best lines in literature.
What does the story mean? It means what you want it to mean. For the purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think. But to give you questions to think upon.
Essential. Recommend.
What does the story mean? It means what you want it to mean. For the purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think. But to give you questions to think upon.
Essential. Recommend.
Review of advance copy
Definitely not a children's book but this picture book did have beautiful artwork and told a solid but dark story. I would've liked to see things fleshed out a little bit more post climax but I did enjoy it.
Review of advance copy
This a piece of in-world folklore told by Hoid in The Way of Kings. It is a great short story, with a solid moral, and the art in this book is amazing!
I received this book as part of a Backerkit campaign.
I received this book as part of a Backerkit campaign.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow wow wow wow wow.
I remember reading this in The Way of Kings and seeing it brought to life gave me chills. The meaning behind the story is up to interpretation and that's the beauty of storytelling. Love this so much.
I remember reading this in The Way of Kings and seeing it brought to life gave me chills. The meaning behind the story is up to interpretation and that's the beauty of storytelling. Love this so much.
Review of advance copy
The art in this book is absolutely breathtaking! I really appreciate how each book in Hoid’s storybook collection is so different in terms of vibe and art style.
This book hit the tones of philosophy and self reflection perfectly! It made me emotional - just like reading the Stormlight archives!
This book hit the tones of philosophy and self reflection perfectly! It made me emotional - just like reading the Stormlight archives!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another story Hoid tells from "Stormlight Archive" series. Beautiful edition.
Review of advance copy
4/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
My favorite short story from Hoid. It always hits hard and I love that now I have illustrations about it, including Kaladin!
Review of advance copy
The story as told in the Stormlight Archive. The art is stunning, and the framing of the story was perfect.
Review of advance copy
This is my favorite story of Hoid's storybook collection as a philosophical story for adults, but in the form of a picture book.
Review of advance copy
Great story and illustrations. This one is probably too disturbing for younger children.
Review of advance copy
A dark and poignant story with hautingly detailed and realistic artwork.
Review of advance copy
Beautiful illustrations and Hoid addition. Great timing to recieve my Sandy box as I have just reread this story in the Stormlight archives
Review of advance copy
Thoughtful and thought provoking, Wonderful artwork
Review of advance copy
8/10
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beautifully illustrated picture book of the story Hoid tells Kaladin in Stormlight Archive.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews