I apologise for misspelling or points that aren’t clear. But I wanted to give my opinions on this as a long term fan of the Grishaverse.
Regarding the edits made to the Dregs addition of Six of Crows, I, personally, don’t believe their ages added significantly to the plot. While it may add another level of depth and sympathy, it does not change the plot; even though I have seen the argument that the moral of the story was “kids failed and traumatised by the system.” And while this is a valid take away from the books, I still think there is that implication. (Having said this I haven’t seen all the edits yet.)
I do believe it to be strange that Leigh would backtrack on this element of her story telling, although it does not destroy all of that message.
As well, I saw someone make this really great point that, especially in the context of Matthias, that his character arc and self actualisation would very much fit at any age. Mainly their point was that Matthias realising he was manipulated and groomed by the system would be just as impactful as an adult or a child. I think, in terms of a wider universe, his story could have been more impactful as an adult. More often than not it will take the emotional regulation of an adult to learn the flaws in their actions.
However, my main concern with the edits is not plot or character related. It is censorship, in my opinion. This book series has been out for about 10 years (I think), to make edits and not release a statement to audiences that they would be taking place is dystopian. It’s 1984, actually. Leigh has full autonomy to change elements of her books, I believe that, but to not say anything? I think it’s strange.
Regarding the political climate we are in, with book banning on a high. What is to stop government from simply editing what they don’t like? And it starts with small, seemingly insignificant changes, like age. Until it’s not.
Overall, the main message of the books still remains true. But part of me thinks it’s eerie to edit a series that’s been out around a decade. Eerie in the sense it was done quietly and without anyone knowing. Particularly when many readers relate to the fact characters were young, or because one of the morals was systematic corruption impacting the youth.
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