FROM THE STACKS

The Dark is Rising series by Susan Cooper

When the Dark comes rising, six shall turn it back;

Three from the circle, three from the track;


Wood, bronze, iron; water, fire, stone;


Five will return, and one go alone.

Published between 1965 and 1977, this series chronicles the adventures of charming English children as they participate in the battle for good over evil. Pretty standard fare for children’s fantasy literature but written with a sensitivity to nature, myth and higher ideals that will stay with you for years to come. If you or your child is tired of re-reading JK Rowling, Philip Pullman or CS Lewis take refuge in Cooper’s engaging characters and layered stories.

Avoid watching the movie loosely based around the second book as little of the original quality carries through.