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The Dark Is Rising

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1973

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Book Brief

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Susan Cooper

The Dark Is Rising

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1973
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1970s

Publication Year

1973

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

920L

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Super Short Summary

In Susan Cooper's contemporary fantasy novel, The Dark Is Rising, eleven-year-old Will Stanton discovers he is the last of the Old Ones, immortals dedicated to fighting the Dark. On his journey, Will must locate and unite six ancient Signs, encountering mystical beings and facing various challenges as he learns to harness his new powers to combat the growing threat of the Dark.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

60,810 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Dark Is Rising by Susan Cooper receives high praise for its rich storytelling, evocative atmosphere, and strong mythological elements. Critics commend its complex characters and gripping plotline. However, some find the pacing slow and the narrative occasionally difficult to follow for younger readers. Overall, it's celebrated as a timeless, intricate fantasy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Dark Is Rising?

Fans of The Dark Is Rising by Susan Cooper often enjoy fantasy novels with rich folklore and adventure. Ideal for readers who appreciate J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series or C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia. They typically relish intricate mythologies, heroic quests, and young protagonists growing into their destinies.

4.2

60,810 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Will Stanton

An 11-year-old who discovers he is the last of the immortal Great Old Ones, embodying both the innocence of youth and the wisdom of his ancient kind as he gathers mystical signs to counter the Dark.

The oldest of the Great Old Ones and a mentor to Will, his longstanding battle against the Dark demonstrates both sagacity and the complexities of moral leadership.

Once a devoted companion to Merriman, he struggles with loyalty and betrayal, leading to complex alliances that span centuries.

Will’s oldest brother, whose life of globe-trotting adventure offers Will a vision of adulthood and independence distinct from their family home.

The second oldest brother known for his artistic nature, reflecting the family's creative inclinations.

Will’s oldest sister, who takes on nurturing and household roles within their large family.

The twin brothers of Will, with Robin being more athletic and Paul a musical prodigy, both contributing to the family’s artistic environment.

A mostly background character among Will's siblings, mentioned sparingly throughout the narrative.

The sister closest in age to Will, she exhibits traits of typical teenage behavior and unwittingly complicates Will's life due to external influences.

Will's immediate older brother who shares a close bond through their mutual participation in music and church choir activities.

A formidable opponent of the Great Old Ones, representing the seductive power of the Dark with shifting identities across the series.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1970s

Publication Year

1973

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

920L

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