Books in the series The Dark Is Rising Sequence

Set against the rugged, mystical backdrop of the Cornish coast, Over Sea, Under Stone follows the three Drew siblings—Simon, Jane, and Barney—as they embark on a summer holiday that quickly turns into a high-stakes adventure. While exploring the dusty attic of their Great-Uncle Merry’s ancient house, they discover a weathered map that hints at a legendary treasure: the Holy Grail itself. This is no ordinary treasure hunt, however, as the children soon realize they are caught in the middle of an age-old struggle between the Light and the Dark.

This classic novel is the perfect introduction to epic fantasy for middle-grade readers who enjoy stories rooted in folklore and Arthurian legend. Susan Cooper masterfully blends a realistic mystery with atmospheric magic, making it an ideal choice for children who love The Chronicles of Narnia or The Hobbit. Readers will be captivated by the sense of history and the growing tension as the children race against sinister forces to protect the world from ancient evil.

Highlights:

• A thrilling quest based on Arthurian legends and ancient British mythology.
• Atmospheric setting in the coastal village of Trewissick, Cornwall.
• Strong themes of teamwork and bravery among three relatable siblings.
• The foundational first book in the acclaimed The Dark Is Rising Sequence.

On the eve of his eleventh birthday, Will Stanton discovers a world he never knew existed. He is not just an ordinary boy; he is the last of the Old Ones, immortal guardians of the Light. As the Dark begins to rise in a terrifying midwinter surge, Will must embark on a perilous quest to find six magical Signs that will help drive back the encroaching shadows. Set against a snowy English landscape steeped in ancient Celtic and Arthurian legend, this Newbery Honor-winning classic is a masterpiece of atmospheric storytelling.

This book is perfect for children who love epic battles between good and evil and stories where ordinary children discover extraordinary destinies. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in mythology, folklore, and high-stakes adventure. Parents will appreciate the lyrical prose and the deep moral themes that challenge young readers to think about courage and the weight of responsibility. It is a great choice for fans of The Chronicles of Narnia or Harry Potter who are looking for a more grounded, mythic fantasy experience.

Highlights:

• A rich blend of modern setting and ancient British mythology.
• An immersive, atmospheric winter setting that builds tension and wonder.
• A compelling coming-of-age journey centered on destiny and duty.
• The second book in a celebrated series that can also be read as a standalone.

In the third installment of Susan Cooper's acclaimed The Dark Is Rising Sequence, the Drew children—Simon, Jane, and Barney—reunite with the mysterious Will Stanton in the coastal village of Trewissick. The ancient Grail has been stolen by the forces of the Dark, and the quest to retrieve it leads the group into a world where local folklore and high fantasy collide. As the village prepares for the annual ritual of the Greenwitch, a figure woven from rowan and hawthorn, the children realize that this ancient entity holds a secret vital to their mission.

Greenwitch is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling, perfect for children who love stories rooted in mythology and legend. Unlike the more action-heavy entries in the series, this book focuses on the power of empathy and the quiet strength of Jane Drew. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in Arthurian legends, British folklore, and the timeless struggle between good and evil. Fans of C.S. Lewis and Lloyd Alexander will find themselves captivated by Cooper's lyrical prose and the haunting beauty of the Cornish coast.

Highlights:

• A compelling blend of ancient Cornish folklore and epic fantasy.
• Focuses on the importance of empathy and kindness in the face of darkness.
• Features a crossover between the protagonists of the first two books in the series.
• Rich, atmospheric setting that brings the coastal village to life.
• A pivotal chapter in the legendary The Dark Is Rising Sequence.

The Grey King, the Newbery Medal-winning fourth installment in Susan Cooper's acclaimed The Dark Is Rising Sequence, transports readers to the misty, atmospheric mountains of Wales. Following a severe illness, young Will Stanton—the last of the Old Ones—is sent to stay with relatives to recover. However, his rest is short-lived as he is drawn into a high-stakes quest to find the golden harp that will wake the Sleepers. Alongside a mysterious boy named Bran and his loyal dog, Will must face the malevolent power of the Grey King, one of the most formidable Lords of the Dark.

This classic work of high fantasy is perfect for children who love immersive world-building and stories rooted in Arthurian legend and Welsh mythology. Ideal for readers interested in epic battles between good and evil, it offers a sophisticated narrative that challenges and inspires. Parents looking for a timeless adventure with deep thematic resonance will find this a great choice for middle-grade readers ready for more complex storytelling.

Highlights:

• Winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal for excellence in children's literature.
• Richly atmospheric setting that brings Welsh folklore and landscapes to life.
• A compelling coming-of-age journey centered on destiny, bravery, and the weight of responsibility.
• Perfect for fans of The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings.

Silver on the Tree is the breathtaking conclusion to Susan Cooper’s acclaimed The Dark Is Rising Sequence. In this final, epic showdown, Will Stanton—the last of the Old Ones—must join forces with the Drew children and the mysterious Bran to face the ultimate power of the Dark. As the forces of evil gather for one last attempt to claim the world, our heroes must travel through time and myth, seeking the crystal sword that is the only hope for the Light. This masterpiece of high fantasy weaves together Arthurian legend, Welsh folklore, and a timeless struggle between good and evil.

Perfect for children who love epic quests and mythological mysteries, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in British folklore and classic fantasy literature. Parents will appreciate the rich, lyrical prose and the deep moral questions the story explores. It is a great choice for fans of C.S. Lewis or J.R.R. Tolkien who are looking for a sophisticated and emotionally resonant adventure. As the threads of the series come together, readers will be captivated by the high stakes and the enduring power of friendship and courage.

Highlights:

• The thrilling conclusion to a beloved Newbery Honor-winning series.
• A rich blend of Arthurian legend and Celtic mythology.
• Complex characters facing high-stakes moral dilemmas.
• Atmospheric and lyrical writing that transports readers to ancient landscapes.