iPad Mail iOS 26: Split view requires tap for full screen

With IOS 26.2 my mail inboxes shows up on the left of the screen, then when selecting an email to open to read, the side on the left showing the list of emails stays open, and a mini view of the email appears instead of a full view. That sucks now because I have an extra step to have to click on the expanding arrows to get email to open in full screen so I can read it. I’m using an iPad mini which I love, but hate having now an extra step to get email to appear full screen. If things works best leave them alone rather than make changes. I can’t figure out why someone thought this was needed, or necessary to have this way. Is there a way to view mail like before IOS 26.2?