92 pages • 3 hours read
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320
Novel • Fiction
England • 1970s
1973
Middle grade
8-12 years
920L
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
60,810 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
60,810 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Merriman Lyon (Merlin)
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.
Hawkin/The Walker
Once a devoted companion to Merriman, he struggles with loyalty and betrayal, leading to complex alliances that span centuries.
Stephen Stanton
Will’s oldest brother, whose life of globe-trotting adventure offers Will a vision of adulthood and independence distinct from their family home.
Max Stanton
The second oldest brother known for his artistic nature, reflecting the family's creative inclinations.
Gwen Stanton
Will’s oldest sister, who takes on nurturing and household roles within their large family.
Robin and Paul Stanton
The twin brothers of Will, with Robin being more athletic and Paul a musical prodigy, both contributing to the family’s artistic environment.
Barbara Stanton
A mostly background character among Will's siblings, mentioned sparingly throughout the narrative.
Mary Stanton
The sister closest in age to Will, she exhibits traits of typical teenage behavior and unwittingly complicates Will's life due to external influences.
James Stanton
Will's immediate older brother who shares a close bond through their mutual participation in music and church choir activities.
The Rider (Mitothin)
A formidable opponent of the Great Old Ones, representing the seductive power of the Dark with shifting identities across the series.
320
Novel • Fiction
England • 1970s
1973
Middle grade
8-12 years
920L
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