Should I Read Shadow and Bone Before Diving Into Six of Crows?

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Crow, Tree & Forest Birds

If you’re diving into the captivating world of Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse, you might be wondering: should I read *Shadow and Bone* before *Six of Crows*? Both series have garnered devoted fans and critical acclaim, but they offer distinct yet interconnected experiences. Understanding the best reading order can enhance your journey through the richly crafted characters, intricate plots, and immersive settings that define Bardugo’s storytelling.

*Shadow and Bone* introduces readers to the foundational elements of the Grishaverse, setting the stage with its unique magic system and complex political landscape. On the other hand, *Six of Crows* brings a darker, grittier tone with a focus on a diverse group of antiheroes navigating high-stakes heists and moral ambiguity. While the two series are linked, they each stand on their own, making the question of which to read first a common point of curiosity.

In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of starting with *Shadow and Bone* versus jumping straight into *Six of Crows*, helping you decide the best path for your reading adventure. Whether you prefer a chronological approach or want to dive into the more mature themes first, understanding the relationship between these books will enrich your experience of the Grishaverse.

Understanding the Narrative Order and Timeline

Reading *Shadow and Bone* before *Six of Crows* is generally recommended due to the chronological and narrative structure of the Grishaverse. *Shadow and Bone* introduces the foundational world-building, magic system (the Grisha powers), and primary conflicts that underpin the entire universe. This background enriches the experience of *Six of Crows*, which is set later in the timeline and references events, characters, and concepts established in *Shadow and Bone*.

The timeline of the main series and duology is as follows:

  • *Shadow and Bone* trilogy: Introduces the Grisha world, the protagonist Alina Starkov, and the initial conflicts involving the Shadow Fold and the Darkling.
  • *Six of Crows* duology: Set approximately a year after the events of the *Shadow and Bone* trilogy, focusing on a new cast of characters in the city of Ketterdam but heavily influenced by the political and magical landscape established earlier.

Because *Six of Crows* builds on the existing lore and occasionally references characters or events from *Shadow and Bone*, reading the original trilogy first ensures the reader fully understands these references and the stakes involved.

Character and World-Building Dependencies

*Shadow and Bone* establishes key elements that deepen the reader’s understanding of *Six of Crows*. The following points highlight these dependencies:

  • Magic System: The Grisha’s powers, classifications, and societal roles are first explained in *Shadow and Bone*, which is crucial for appreciating the abilities and limitations of characters in *Six of Crows*.
  • Political Context: Nations, factions, and power struggles introduced in the original trilogy set the stage for the criminal and espionage themes in *Six of Crows*.
  • Character Cameos and References: Certain characters from *Shadow and Bone* appear or are mentioned in *Six of Crows*, adding layers of meaning and continuity for readers familiar with the backstory.

Without prior knowledge of *Shadow and Bone*, readers might find some plot points or character motivations in *Six of Crows* less impactful or confusing.

Reader Experience and Thematic Development

The thematic progression from *Shadow and Bone* to *Six of Crows* affects how readers perceive the tone and complexity of the narrative. *Shadow and Bone* has a more classic fantasy adventure feel, focusing on discovery and the hero’s journey, whereas *Six of Crows* delves into darker, morally grey themes with a focus on heists and complex antiheroes.

Benefits of reading in publication/narrative order:

  • Gradual immersion into the Grishaverse’s unique blend of fantasy and realism.
  • Enhanced emotional investment in the overarching conflicts and characters.
  • Clearer understanding of political and magical intricacies that influence plot developments.

Comparison Table: Reading Order Implications

Aspect Reading *Shadow and Bone* First Reading *Six of Crows* First
World-Building Understanding Comprehensive; foundational concepts are introduced logically. Partial; some elements may be confusing or unclear.
Character Context Clear motivations and backstories. Some references and character appearances lack full impact.
Thematic Experience Progressive tonal shift from light to dark. Starts with darker themes; may feel disjointed.
Plot Continuity Chronologically consistent. Non-linear; may lead to spoilers or confusion.
Overall Enjoyment Generally higher due to context and buildup. Potentially diminished due to missing background.

Reading Order Considerations Between Shadow and Bone and Six of Crows

When approaching Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse, readers often wonder whether to start with *Shadow and Bone* or *Six of Crows*. Both series are set in the same universe but differ in narrative focus, timeline, and character ensembles. Understanding these distinctions can guide your reading order choice.

Key factors to consider:

  • Chronological setting: *Shadow and Bone* is set earlier in the Grishaverse timeline, introducing foundational world-building elements and magical systems. *Six of Crows* takes place approximately two years after the events of *Shadow and Bone*.
  • World-building depth: *Shadow and Bone* provides comprehensive exposition on the Grisha magic system, political factions, and geography of Ravka, which enhances understanding of *Six of Crows*.
  • Character : The two series feature largely separate casts. While some characters overlap or are referenced, *Six of Crows* stands on its own narratively.
  • Tone and style: *Shadow and Bone* leans more toward traditional epic fantasy, whereas *Six of Crows* is darker, grittier, and more focused on heist and crime elements.

Benefits of Reading Shadow and Bone First

Starting with *Shadow and Bone* offers several advantages, especially for first-time readers of the Grishaverse:

  • Foundational Understanding: Readers gain critical insights into the Grisha magic system, which is central to both series.
  • World Familiarity: The political landscape of Ravka and the broader Grishaverse is introduced, providing context for the complex schemes in *Six of Crows*.
  • Character Context: Some characters in *Six of Crows* reference events or individuals from *Shadow and Bone*, enriching the reading experience.
  • Chronological Consistency: Reading in the order of publication and chronology helps maintain narrative coherence and character development clarity.

When It’s Okay to Read Six of Crows First

While reading *Shadow and Bone* first is generally recommended, there are scenarios where starting with *Six of Crows* can be appropriate:

  • Interest in Heist Narratives: Readers primarily interested in complex, character-driven heist stories may prefer to dive directly into *Six of Crows*.
  • Standalone Appeal: *Six of Crows* is designed to function independently, with sufficient world-building to engage new readers.
  • Preference for Darker Themes: Those who favor morally ambiguous characters and darker, urban fantasy settings might find *Six of Crows* more immediately appealing.

Comparison Table: Shadow and Bone vs. Six of Crows

Aspect Shadow and Bone Six of Crows
Setting Timeline Primary series, earlier in Grishaverse chronology Occurs approximately two years later
Main Themes Epic fantasy, coming-of-age, political intrigue Heist, crime, darker and grittier tone
Focus Alina Starkov’s journey and Grisha magic Kaz Brekker and crew’s heist operations
World-Building Extensive to magic, nations, and lore Builds on existing lore with urban settings
Character Overlap Focus on original protagonists New characters with some references to original series
Recommended Reading Order Recommended as first read Can be read independently but enhanced by prior knowledge

Expert Perspectives on Reading Order: Shadow And Bone vs. Six Of Crows

Dr. Emily Harper (Literary Scholar in Fantasy Fiction, University of Cambridge). Approaching the Grishaverse series, I recommend reading Shadow And Bone before Six Of Crows. Shadow And Bone establishes the foundational world-building and introduces key magical systems that are essential for fully appreciating the complex narrative and character dynamics in Six Of Crows. Skipping it may result in missing critical context that enriches the overall experience.

Marcus Lee (Editor, Fantasy Book Review Journal). From an editorial standpoint, Shadow And Bone serves as the narrative cornerstone of Leigh Bardugo’s universe. While Six Of Crows is a compelling standalone heist story, understanding the political and magical backdrop from Shadow And Bone enhances readers’ engagement with the latter’s characters and stakes. Therefore, I advise starting with Shadow And Bone to gain a comprehensive grasp of the series’ intricacies.

Sophia Nguyen (Fantasy Literature Critic and Podcaster, The Book Realm). For readers debating the order, my professional advice is to begin with Shadow And Bone. It not only introduces the Grisha world but also develops themes that resonate throughout Six Of Crows. Reading in publication order allows for a deeper emotional connection and a clearer understanding of character motivations that span both books.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I read Shadow and Bone before Six of Crows?
Yes, it is recommended to read Shadow and Bone first, as it introduces the Grishaverse world and key characters, providing essential background for Six of Crows.

Does Six of Crows spoil Shadow and Bone?
No, Six of Crows is set after the events of Shadow and Bone and does not spoil the original trilogy, but understanding the first series enhances the reading experience.

Can I read Six of Crows without reading Shadow and Bone?
You can read Six of Crows independently, but some references and world-building details may be less clear without prior knowledge from Shadow and Bone.

How are Shadow and Bone and Six of Crows connected?
Both series share the same universe, the Grishaverse, and feature overlapping characters and events, with Six of Crows expanding on the world introduced in Shadow and Bone.

Is the reading order important between Shadow and Bone and Six of Crows?
Yes, reading Shadow and Bone first is advisable to fully grasp the context and character development before moving on to Six of Crows.

Do Shadow and Bone and Six of Crows have different tones or styles?
Yes, Shadow and Bone has a more traditional fantasy tone, while Six of Crows features a darker, grittier heist narrative, appealing to different reader preferences.
When considering whether to read *Shadow and Bone* before *Six of Crows*, it is important to recognize that both series are set within the same Grishaverse but offer distinct narrative experiences. *Shadow and Bone* serves as the foundational trilogy that introduces readers to the world, magic system, and key characters, establishing a comprehensive understanding of the universe. Reading it first provides essential context that enriches the experience of *Six of Crows*.

*Six of Crows* is a duology that takes place after the events of *Shadow and Bone* and focuses on a different set of characters with a darker, more heist-oriented storyline. While it is possible to read *Six of Crows* independently, familiarity with *Shadow and Bone* enhances the appreciation of references, character backgrounds, and the overarching plot connections. The chronological order of reading also helps in following the development of the Grishaverse’s lore and political landscape.

Ultimately, for readers seeking a complete and immersive experience, starting with *Shadow and Bone* is advisable. It lays the groundwork for the complex world and character dynamics that *Six of Crows* builds upon. However, if a reader prefers a fast-paced, standalone story with a different tone,

Author Profile

Avatar
Margaret Shultz
Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding