BookPath
Skyward
Brandon Sanderson

Skyward

Quick Answer

Start with "Skyward" to begin the Skyward series. It is the essential series starter and provides the necessary foundation for the rest of the books.

Quick Verdict

✅ Safe to read now (Series Entry Point)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: This is the essential series starter that introduces the Brandon Sanderson's core world and character arcs. It is required reading for all new fans.

Is this helpful?
2019544 ppSeries StarterWikidataSource
**SPENSA'S WORLD HAS BEEN UNDER ATTACK FOR DECADES.** Now pilots are the heroes of what's left of the human race, and becoming one has always been Spensa's dream. Since she was a little girl, she has imagined soaring skyward and proving her bravery. But her fate is intertwined with her father's--a pilot himself who was killed years ago when he abruptly deserted his team, leaving Spensa the daughter of a coward, her chances of attending Flight School slim to none. No one will let Spensa forget what her father did, yet fate works in mysterious ways. Flight school might be a long shot, but she is determined to fly. And an accidental discovery in a long-forgotten cavern might just provide her with a way to claim the stars. This description comes from the publisher.
Next Recommended Book

Starsight

Book #2 of 4 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Skyward series conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Skyward?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read Skyward before other books in the series?

Yes, Skyward is the first book in the series and is the ideal starting point for new readers.

Is Skyward required reading for the Skyward series?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after Skyward in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Skyward is Starsight (Book #2).