BookPath
Worlds' End
Neil Gaiman

Worlds' End

Quick Answer

"Worlds' End" is an optional companion work. It can be read at any time, though it is usually best enjoyed after reading the first few core novels of the The Sandman (Original Graphic Novel Series).

Quick Verdict

🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot

❓ Can I skip this book?
✅ Yes — Optional

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Verdict Insight: While this novella provides deeper world-building, it is a standalone story and can be read at any stage.

Is this helpful?
2012168 ppNovellaOptional Side Story
Reminiscent of the legendary Canterbury Tales, THE SANDMAN: WORLDS' END is a wonderful potpourri of engrossing tales and masterly storytelling. Improbably caught in a June blizzard, two wayward compatriots stumble upon a mysterious inn and learn that they are in the middle of a "reality storm." Now surrounded by a menagerie of people and creatures from different times and realities, the two stranded travelers are entertained by mesmerizing myths of infamous sea creatures, dreaming cities, ancient kings, astonishing funeral rituals and moralistic hangmen.
Next Recommended Book

Brief Lives

Book #6 of 8 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 The Sandman (Original Graphic Novel 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 Worlds' End?

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Can I read Worlds' End before A Game Of You?

Yes. Worlds' End is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.

Is Worlds' End required reading for the The Sandman (Original Graphic Novel Series)?

No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.

What comes after Worlds' End in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Worlds' End is Brief Lives (Book #6).