Prologue: To Live

This is the preface and acknowledgments section of Wind and Truth, Book Five of the Stormlight Archive. Brandon Sanderson introduces the novel as the midpoint and conclusion of the first major story arc, noting it is his longest book to date after four years of intensive work. He provides credits and thanks to the extensive team at Dragonsteel, Tor Books, and other partners who contributed to the book's creation.

Sanderson opens with a welcome to Wind and Truth, explaining that this book represents both the midpoint of the Stormlight Archive series and the ending of the first major arc. He notes the significant effort invested over four years, making it the longest book he has written and one requiring the most sustained focus. While Sanderson remains the sole author of every word, he acknowledges that Dragonsteel has grown into a substantial organization where many team members contributed beyond typical publishing schedules to meet deadlines. He encourages readers to thank the various contributors if they meet them. The remainder consists of comprehensive credits listing artists, publishing staff at Tor Books and Gollancz, copyeditors, audiobook narrators, agency representatives, Dragonsteel operations and creative staff, editorial team, merchandise and events personnel, publicity and marketing staff, his writing group, subject matter experts consulted on topics including dissociative identity disorder and military matters, and extensive lists of beta and gamma readers who provided feedback during development.