6 Brandon Sanderson Books Apple TV Needs to Adapt After 'Mistborn'

Apple TV’s Next Moves with Sanderson’s Catalog

In simple terms, Apple TV’s adaptation of Brandon Sanderson's work begins with Mistborn, but several other titles deserve attention. Based on the wealth of stories in Sanderson's expansive Cosmere universe, here are six key works that Apple should consider adapting next, each offering unique narratives and captivating magic systems that could shine on screen.

1. The Stormlight Archive

What happened is that The Stormlight Archive is not just a fan-favorite but also a confirmed project for adaptation. Following Mistborn, this epic series should be Apple’s next focus, beginning with The Way of Kings, which sets the stage for its intricate world. The novel’s multi-layered storytelling and detailed characters can rival any epic fantasy currently on television.

This series introduces various complex themes through its magic systems and character arcs, allowing for deep storytelling and visual spectacle. Each character has rich backstories and purposeful developments, making it an ensemble piece well-suited for serialized storytelling akin to Game of Thrones, yet able to carve out its own identity.

2. Tress of the Emerald Sea

Another strong candidate is Tress of the Emerald Sea, a standalone tale that is whimsical in nature. This enchanting narrative could be beautifully adapted with a Studio Ghibli-esque style, emphasizing its atmospheric setting and rich visuals. The adventure of Tress, set against vibrant seas and fantastical landscapes, stands to capture both new audiences and existing fans of Sanderson’s work.

The story incorporates themes of bravery and personal growth, making it universally relatable while also entertaining. Given its standalone nature, Apple could explore the narrative without needing extensive series planning.

3. Yumi and the Nightmare Painter

Another secret gem is Yumi and the Nightmare Painter, a vibrant story that can be visually stunning. It revolves around contrasting worlds and characters, which could offer a rich palate for adaptation. The body-swapping concept central to the story adds an intriguing twist, blending romance and fantasy in a way that broadens its appeal.

Each character’s environment—from a peaceful natural backdrop to a more urban setting—would create visual allure and storytelling diversity, making it a flexible narrative for adaptation.

4. Warbreaker

Warbreaker is known for its unique magic system based on Biochromatic Breath, which would translate well to visual media. The story of two sisters, one destined for royalty and the other on a rescue mission, contains familiar yet captivating themes that would resonate with a broad audience. The fantasy elements and moral dilemmas within the narrative could facilitate compelling character arcs that engage viewers.

However, with Sanderson’s plans for a sequel, there remains some uncertainty as to when or if an adaptation would take place without risking continuity issues.

5. Elantris

As Sanderson's first published work, Elantris represents an opportunity to potentially rectify the author’s own criticisms of the novel. Set in a cursed city, the story encompasses themes of hope and redemption, which could be compelling in an adaptation format. The atmospheric elements and multiple character perspectives provide ample material for engaging storytelling, making it a worthy candidate—despite Sanderson's own reservations about its potential.

While it isn’t as action-heavy, adapting this tale would have a lower production demand yet still offer a visually appealing narrative filled with magic.

6. The Emperor's Soul

Finally, The Emperor's Soul, a shorter novella about a thief who can rewrite the essence of objects, holds strong potential for adaptation into a concise film or miniseries. The cutting-edge themes of identity and morality would offer rich material for a character-driven narrative. It could be transformed into either an animated or live-action piece, catering to various audiences while standing alone amid the broader context of the Cosmere.

What this means

Apple TV’s commitment to adapting Brandon Sanderson's works signals a significant investment in high-quality fantasy storytelling. With several intriguing titles to consider beyond Mistborn, each of these adaptations has the potential for strong visual narratives and character development that resonate with viewers. While plans for each of these projects remain somewhat uncertain, there's no doubt they could sustain audience engagement as the success of Mistborn unfolds. The future of Sanderson's universe on-screen looks promising, with endless possibilities to explore.

For more on adaptations and insights into Sanderson's work, check our other articles, including how Mistborn might fix original book mistakes and the challenges facing other adaptations.

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