Should I Read the Grisha Series Before Six of Crows?

When approaching the immersive world of Six of Crows/Crooked Kingdom, a crucial decision awaits: should you read the Grisha Series before diving into Kaz and crew's adventures? While it’s not strictly necessary, doing so can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the rich, multi-layered universe.

Understanding the Universe

Purely for Interest: If you are curious about the characters, world, and deeper intricacies of the magic system without needing to follow the narrative, reading the Grisha Series can provide invaluable context. The Grisha trilogy, comprising Shadow and Bone, Siege and Storm, and Ruin and Rising, introduces you to the origins of the magic system, the political landscape, and the characters that paved the way for Six of Crows.

Chronological Order: For those who prefer to read in chronological order, the Grisha Series offers a complete narrative arc. Starting with Shadow and Bone sets the stage for the broader world and political context. It's a strong recommendation if you are looking for a deeper connection to the Valikovian universe. The trilogy provides a solid foundation that helps you immerse yourself fully into the subsequent storylines of Six of Crows, Crooked Kingdom, and beyond.

Direct Dive vs. Background Preparation

Six of Crows Standalone: Alternatively, if you opt to start with Six of Crows, you will still have a fulfilling reading experience. However, it's important to note that some elements and character introductions might not make complete sense without the broader context of the Grisha trilogy. Additionally, the Grisha series introduces several key grisha types, political players, and countries that are referenced in the duology. A quick overview of these elements—such as the different grisha types, countries, politics, and main characters—can help bridge the gap.

Future Readings: Comprehensive Understanding: If you plan to read the entire series, including The King of Scars and its sequel, it is highly recommended to read the Grisha Series first. Skipping this step means you might encounter major spoilers and plot information from the Grisha trilogy. The interconnected nature of the stories ensures that you will miss key plot points if you begin with Six of Crows.

Author's Intention and Personal Experience

Consistency in Writing Style: Leigh Bardugo, the author, intentionally wrote Six of Crows and its duology to be self-contained, but she harmonizes this with the pre-existing universe. This explains why the Grisha series provides a more in-depth understanding. Some elements may still not be fully explained in Six of Crows, which is why a read of the Grisha trilogy is beneficial for a complete picture. My personal experience aligns with her intention, as the duology, while awesome, did have some parts that were missing context without prior knowledge.

Adaptation to Reading Preferences: The choice to read the Grisha Series or Six of Crows first ultimately depends on your reading preferences. If you are eager to explore the diversity of characters and the magic system firsthand, you can start with Six of Crows. However, if you want a more comprehensive and deeply rooted connection to the Valikovian world, reading the trilogy first is advisable.

In conclusion, while it’s not strictly necessary to read the Grisha Series before Six of Crows, doing so will undoubtedly enhance your reading experience. If you plan to read the entire series, the better understanding and context provided by the Grisha trilogy cannot be overstated. For a quick and enjoyable dive into the world of Kaz Brekker and his crew, starting with Six of Crows is perfectly fine. The choice is yours, but remember, the more informed you are, the richer your journey through the Valikovian universe will be.