S
Susan Cooper
The Dark Is Rising
The Dark Is Rising series follows Will Stanton, a boy who discovers he is an Old One, destined to fight the rising forces of the Dark. This high fantasy saga blends Arthurian legend and Celtic mythology with a timeless struggle between good and evil. It's a classic tale of magic, destiny, and the power of ancient forces.
While "The Dark Is Rising" is the second book published, the recommended reading order for the series begins with "Over Sea, Under Stone," followed by "The Dark Is Rising," "Greenwitch," "The Grey King," and finally "Silver on the Tree." This sequence follows the internal chronology and character development most effectively.
The second book in the series, "The Dark Is Rising," was adapted into a film titled "The Seeker: The Dark Is Rising" in 2007. There is also a television series adaptation of the books currently in development.
The series is notable for its deep integration of British folklore and Arthurian legends into a contemporary setting, creating a sense of ancient magic hidden within the modern world. It also features a strong sense of place, with vivid descriptions of the English countryside and its historical significance.