The Dark Is Rising Sequence: Silver on the Tree; The Grey King; Greenwitch; The Dark Is Rising; and Over Sea, Under Stone

Amazon.com

Joined by destiny, the lives of the Drew children, Will Stanton, and a boy named Bran weave together in an exquisite, sometimes terrifying tapestry of mystery and quests. In the five-title series of novels known as The Dark Is Rising Sequence, these children pit the power of good against the evil forces of Dark in a timeless and dangerous battle that includes crystal swords, golden grails, and a silver-eyed dog that can see the wind. Susan Cooper's highly acclaimed fantasy novels, steeped in Celtic and Welsh legends, have won numerous awards, including the Newbery Medal and the Newbery Honor. Now all five paperback volumes have been collected in one smart boxed set. These classic fantasies, complex and multifaceted, should not be missed, by child or adult. The set includes Over Sea, Under Stone, The Dark Is Rising, Greenwitch, The Grey King, and Silver on the Tree. (Ages 9 and older) --Emilie Coulter

Customer Reviews:

One of the best series ever written..........2007-08-10

I can't even begin to describe this series and I won't try to. I'm afraid I'd only do it a disservice! Susan Cooper says SO much in so few eloquent words that her books are rather like listening to fine music. I rank this easily with the Narnia series as well as Lord of the Rings. And while I adore the Harry Potter books and think JK is a fabulous writer, I truly feel that even they cannot live up to the quiet serious intensity of these books.

Every year I read this series again. I love it more and more with each read.

Recently many illiterate folks have called these books 'boring' and 'flat'. Those same modern day readers often have to be babied through text & dazzled with fancy action scenes. It has also become a fad to bash things that have won awards or recommendations.

This is a story told with very deep and quiet emotions and if you give it a chance then I can promise you, you won't be disappointed. :)

new movie.......2007-05-18

I remember reading this series years ago and since then I have always thought that it would make a great movie and guess what someone else thought so as well. IMDB is reporting that this movie is in production and will be released in October 2007. I am very excited about this and I am really wishing and hoping that they translate it well to the big screen. I have since lost my books but I have just purchased this set to read all the books again and relive my youth again.

Light Is Rising.......2007-05-12

The series as a whole is great. if you have never read them before but enjoy other great fantasy such as Harry Potter, the Forgotten Realms, or even the Lord Of The Rings these are a must read. they have been great books for the last 35 years or so and will continue to be great books 50 years from now.

Wonderful, wonderful series.......2007-05-06

This series is my son's absolute FAVORITE. He's 8 and I recently decided to introduce him to the books, and he ate them up. He said he likes how the bad people aren't always perfect, and he likes the way the Drew siblings work together in OVER SEA, UNDER STONE and again in GREENWICH and SILVER ON THE TREE. I'm pretty sure that he didn't understand all the symbolism in THE DARK IS RISING, though he liked it and made up his own belt of rings as a result.

This series is really wonderful, and I agree with other reviewers - it should be better known. It's mythical elements mix well with the action scenes. Plus, it's very well written and edited - creating really unique and interesting characters.

I'm sort of judicious with my 5 star ratings, but this one definitely deserved it. Pick them up - you won't be disappointed.

DiRS: Box Set.......2007-03-04

I love these books, and I was glad to see that they were now available in a box set!

Dark Force Rising (Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy, Vol. 2)

Average customer rating:

Not Free SF Reader
Author captures the epic spirit of Star Wars space opera
A Star Wars Fix
The middle of a saga is always the best!
The Force is with you!

Dark Force Rising (Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy, Vol. 2)
Timothy Zahn
Manufacturer: Spectra
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0553560719
Release Date: 1993-02-01

Book Description

The dying Empire's most cunning and ruthless warlord--Grand Admiral Thrawn--has taken command of the remnants of the Imperial fleet and launched a massive campaign aimed at the New Republic's destruction. With the aid of unimaginable weapons long hidden away by the Emperor on a backwater planet, Thrawn plans to turn the tide of battle, overwhelm the New Republic, and impose his iron rule throughout the galaxy. Meanwhile, Han and Lando Calrissian race against time to find proof of treason inside the highest Republican Council--only to discover instead a ghostly fleet of warships that could bring doom to their friends and victory to their enemies. Yet most dangerous of all is a new Dark Jedi, risen from the ashes of a shrouded past, consumed by bitterness... and scheming to corrupt Luke Skywalker to the Dark Side.

Customer Reviews:

Not Free SF Reader.......2007-09-03

Grand Admiral Thrawn attacks the New Republic on many fronts. He forces
our intrepid band of heroes to flee assassins, and Leia takes off with
Chewie, and Han goes looking for help by himself.

The dodgy Mara Jade is also floating around, as is a not so nice Jedi Master.

Whoever controls the 'Dark Force' of ancient ships in the end will have a massive advantage in the battle for the galaxy.

Author captures the epic spirit of Star Wars space opera.......2007-05-22

As far as post-Return of the Jedi novels about Luke, Han and Leia go, Timothy Zahn's breakthrough Thrawn Trilogy is the best.

As for the best novels from the era of the movie saga, I highly recommend the following 5-star novels:

Cloak of Deception (Star Wars)
Shadow Hunter (Star Wars: Darth Maul)
Labyrinth of Evil (Star Wars, Episode III Prequel Novel)
Dark Lord: The Rise of Darth Vader (Star Wars)
Shadows of the Empire (Star Wars)

A Star Wars Fix.......2007-01-19

Do you hate George Lucas for ruining his own creation like I do? I mean, Star Wars, the defining mythology of at least two generations, the story of heroes and redemption has become the joke of our times. How could it not? Did you see that idiot, Anakin, scratching his way up the hill, beaten and burned, destined to become the shell for James Earl Jones's ominous basso voice? Did it make you groan? Did it make you want to set fire to the Skywalker Ranch? Am I alone?

Now, I'm not a Star Wars Geek. I don't play the roleplaying game. Never have. I don't have the library of tie-in novels and I do poorly at the trivia compared to a lot of people. But I snuck into the theater when I was 11 years old to watch Luke Skywalker discover The Force. I know great stories and despite the slightly cheesy effects and the ham-handed acting, Star Wars was a great story.

Why am I going on and on about what was? Because Timothy Zahn does Star Wars better than George Lucas does Star Wars. If Lucas had just filmed these three books - Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising, and The Last Command - he'd have a masterpiece to crown his early achievements.

In Dark Force Rising, Leia conducts a mission to influence an alien race heretofore loyal to one of the Emperor's warlords, Luke finds himself battling an insane Jedi Master, Joruus C'Baoth, and Han Solo races the forces of the warlord, General Thrawn, to get to a lost fleet of Dreadnaught cruisers. The tension is high throughout this second book in the series and the characters conduct themselves admirably, keeping to the heroic expectations and rebellious attitudes we expect.

Reading this series, and especially this book, will remind you why we loved Star Wars and why we now hate George Lucas.

- CV Rick

The middle of a saga is always the best!.......2006-07-13

Just like Empire Strikes Back, Dark Force Rising is the pinnacle of what the middle portion of a saga is all about. There is tons of action and the book is so well written that you won't want to put it down.
Highly recommend this one and I can't wait to finish the triology with The Last Command.
Zahn is the man!

The Force is with you!.......2006-07-13

"Dark Force Rising" Volume 2 of the Thrawn Trilogy. Grand Admiral Thrawn continues his attempt to finish off the struggling New Republic. Talon Karrde, the smuggler who took Jabba's place is slowly being pulled over to the New Republic's side even though his right hand Mara Jade (The Emperors' Hand before he died) wants nothing to do with the new republic and who's only goal has been to kill Luke Skywalker. The two opposing sides race for a lost fleet of about 200 ships. The winner will have the upper hand in the continuing battle. Meanwhile the newly surfaced Jedi master plots to capture Leia, her twins and Luke.

The Good: The whole book (along with the other 2 were all very good). It's good to read the old favorites including Han, Leia, Luke, Chewy and Lando. The plot stays strong throughout and this kept the book enjoyable.

The Bad: Nothing memorable

Overall: The book and series are both very good and I recommend them highly

Dark Moon Rising: Pagan BDSM & the Ordeal Path

Average customer rating:

SIMPLY AN AMAZING JOURNEY INTO THE ABYSS!
Authentic + Insighful
Beautiful and invaluable
Spiritual journeys await you in this book
Finding your way through the Labyrinth

Dark Moon Rising: Pagan BDSM & the Ordeal Path
Raven Kaldera
Manufacturer: Lulu.com
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1847288928

Book Description

Throughout history, from the Hindu Kavadi ceremony to the Lakota Sun Dance, the Ordeal Path has been an honored spiritual road to the magic of the flesh, and to touching the Gods. Today many Pagans are discovering this path, by accident or by design. Simultaneously, many practitioners of secular BDSM are finding themselves having spiritual experiences in the middle of their most secular scenes. This book explores the crossover points between both these communities and practices, a cross-section which is growing steadily, baring controversial articles on topics as diverse as sacred pain, bondage, hook suspension, cathartic Pagan ritual, the spirituality of dominance and submission, and being the slave of the Gods. With contributions by noted authors and activists in both communities, and stunning photography by artist and Shibari-Do master Bridgett Harrington, this book is an awe-inspiring gateway into the Realm of the Underworld. and back again.

Customer Reviews:

SIMPLY AN AMAZING JOURNEY INTO THE ABYSS!.......2007-09-09

THIS BOOK WAS GIVEN TO ME AS A GIFT AND I AM OVERWHELMED AT THE SCOPE OF THIS WORK. RAVEN KALDERA IS AN AMAZING PERSON AND HAS EMBARKED UPON AN AMAZING JOURNEY AND THROUGH HER WORK HAS MADE ME A BETTER AND STRONGER MASTER IN THE ART OF BDSM. AS A DEDICATED PAGAN, I NOW INCORPORATE BDSM INTO ALL MY RITUALS AND HAVE FOUND BAPHOMET LIKE NEVER BEFORE.......YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK!! THE HEFTY PRICE TAG IS WELL WORTH IT!

Authentic + Insighful .......2007-08-14

Ravena Kaldera writes with autenticity and deep insight. This book will be treasured for time to come, helping my understanding where BDSM goes beyond the bounds of humanistic experience.

Beautiful and invaluable.......2007-01-12

Raven Kaldera has given the world an amazing gift. In this book, he draws on his many years of first-hand experience to guide those of us who are called to BDSM and spirituality. His writing is intelligent, intimate, and eloquent. Explaining both "why" and "how," the book includes enlightening essays and useful suggestions for spiritual practice. I have read several books that promised to explore these issues. This is the one book I wish I had when I started along this path, and one of the most life-changing books I've read.

Spiritual journeys await you in this book.......2006-09-04

I liked this book a lot. It focuses on some topics in BDSM that are rarely addressed, including an in-depth exploration of the mixing of spirituality and BDSM, as well as dynamics with D/S in spirituality, god-slavery, and comfort zones for tops and bottoms.

The rituals included in the book were a nice touch that can give people some good ideas for rituals that they can use. I felt like I could take most of those rituals, and with a few personal touches, incorporate them into my own practice.

With that said, I do want to emphasize that this book focuses on spirituality based approach to BDSM. Practical magical applications, beyond personal transformation magic, aren't explored in depth. This isn't a bad thing, just part of an on-going trend in BDSM/occult books that is focused on that particular venue, as opposed to other venues.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for inspiration and also spirituality in how they approach BDSM. Raven is an excellent writer who will make you feel as if you're chatting with him.

Finding your way through the Labyrinth.......2006-08-31

If the reader is seeking insight into modern pagans who offer profound sacrifice this book will act as a communion with the experiences of practitioners on the Ordeal Path. For those who are moved to offer the flesh of our bodies, the blood that flows within, the flower of our pain, and the fruit of our endurance Dark Moon Rising provides a framework to begin to understand why we are moved to do so.
The mental health industry and religious reformers would have us believe many ancient spiritual practices are no longer appropriate for modern spiritual needs. Yet countless people seek union with the Divine through body modification, BDSM play/work, and difficult and exhausting physical tasks. There is a strong connection between the exertion of the body and altered states yet the use of these techniques are looked down upon by many people as inappropriate and abusive.
Raven Kaldera presents an array of experiences involving the sacred use of the body, mind, and soul as conduits of transformation. The rituals themselves are not the focus of the book as much as the compassionate exploration of how and why many of us are called to worship in this way.

Dragon Rising: A Battletech Novel (Mechwarrior: Dark Age, #24)

Average customer rating:

Another train wreck from Ilsa J. Bick
Not for Your Average BattleTech/MechWarrior Fan
1 1/2 stars
Mixed Jumble of Plots
Serial killers in the Inner Sphere, again. *sigh*

Dragon Rising: A Battletech Novel (Mechwarrior: Dark Age, #24)
Ilsa J. Bick
Manufacturer: Roc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 045146141X

Book Description

Jade Falcon Galaxy Commander Malvina Hazen and her warriors on the planet Skye receive a visit from a Hell's Horses ship, whose commander issues a Trial of Possession for the wartime doctrine he claims Malvina stole from his Clan. Although she bests her opponent in single BattleTech combat, Malvina's actions may herald the beginnings of a civil war that could unmake the Clan-and the galaxy.

Customer Reviews:

Another train wreck from Ilsa J. Bick .......2007-08-11

Every time I see an upcoming Mechwarrior book by Ms. Bick, I wince. I really want to know who at Wizkids this woman is related to, as there is no way she was hired based on talent!

Not for Your Average BattleTech/MechWarrior Fan.......2007-06-09

This is Ilsa Bick's third attempt to successfully write a BattleTech/MechWarrior novel, and I use the word attempt intentionally. Her first attempt was barely BattleTech/MechWarrior, and her second might as well not have been at all. This story at least ties back into the BattleTech/MechWarrior universe and main story somewhat, but carries on a tradition of a very different kind of novel than we are used to. Not much battle, and not much tech, not many mechs, and the warriors that are featured are overly concerned with murder, intrigue, and homoeroticism. I didn't have much hope going into this novel, but I bought it to keep the set going, and I was pretty unsurprised at the result.

1 1/2 stars.......2007-04-26

I wanted to like this book. I read the other reviews, and hoped they'd be wrong. Well, I was disappointed. I hate to criticize a writer because I have zero talent for writing myself, but this book was hard to finish. Other than advancing the universe storyline slightly, it wasn't worth reading. Save yourself some money. *SPOILER* All you need to know is that the ruling branch of the Kurita family is all but exterminated. Yori is now Cooridinator. Tormak did "take" Dierion, but basically b/c the Republic abandoned it. They also left a trap for her forces that destroyed a large portion of them. The serial killer, who was the Bounty Hunter, is now part of Tormak's inner circle. There you go. That sums things up. I hope her next book is better.

Mixed Jumble of Plots.......2007-02-20

Where to begin?

Where I did like Daughter of the Dragon, this book is confusing and just takes off in too many directions, not unlike Wolf Hunters. When We last left Katana Tormark, she was given the task of retaking the Dieron District...well...it sort of happens in the last 20 pages, and she disappears for at least a third of the book. This novel should have been sent back to the editors for rewrites and trimming, long before it reached us.

Hopefully the next installment will be better.

Serial killers in the Inner Sphere, again. *sigh*.......2007-02-08

I didn't like Bick's previous work with these characters - Daughter of the Dragon - so I'm not sure what I expected out of this one. The story is convoluted, pointlessly bloody (why, oh why, do we have to go into graphic detail for every death?), and ultimately boring; and while plenty of things happened that were important for the overall Battletech universe, by the time they happened, I didn't care about them. Perhaps by some definitions it was well-written, but that doesn't forgive the story. This is as bad a Battletech story as we've had in years. Read Surrender Your Dreams instead.

Average customer rating:

Super Reader
Greenwitch
A great adventure/quest! Shared it with my grandson!
Book One continued
A bittersweet take on a folk tradition/mystery, within the Dark vs Light setting

Greenwitch (The Dark is Rising, Book 3)
Susan Cooper
Manufacturer: Margaret K. McElderry
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0689304269

Book Description

Simon, Jane, and Barney, enlisted by their mysterious great-uncle, arrive in a small coastal town to recover a priceless golden grail stolen by the forces of evil -- Dark. They are not at first aware of the strange powers of another boy brought to help, Will Stanton -- nor of the sinister significance of the Greenwitch, an image of leaves and branches that for centuries has been cast into the sea for good luck in fishing and harvest.

Their search for the grail sets into motion a series of distubing, sometimes dangerous events that, at their climax, bring forth a gift that, for a time at least, will keep the Dark from rising.

Customer Reviews:

Super Reader.......2007-08-07

A very short section of the Dark is Rising sequence, and probably limited at that. The Drew children are reunited, and a bit older and more mature, having arrived from different places for a short break.

This book focuses on them, and in particular Jane, who becomes an important element in finding what the Old Ones, and their agents, the Drews, are after. Together, the warriors of Light must recover the Grail, or all is lost.

Will Stanton and Merriman Lyon are also here, and Will befriends the Drew kids, but again, they are there in a guardian role and for Will's training. They are also not the only Old Ones around at the time, waiting for the Greenwitch ceremony.

Greenwitch.......2006-07-31

Greenwitch is the third in the superb Dark Is Rising sequence by Susan Cooper.
Shorter than the others in the series, it brings together the Drew Children, Simon, Jane and Barney, encountered in Over Sea Under Stone. And Will Stanton from The Dark Is Rising.
We're back in Cornwall for this particular adventure, and as always, Susan Cooper portrays her setting with her usual attention to detail.
Greenwitch is somewhat darker than Over Sea Under Stone, the only other book in the series to be set in Cornwall. But like the other books, it makes for compulsive reading.
My only little gripe is that I would have liked to see the friendship between Will and the Drews develop more. The Drews are hostile towards Will to begin with, yet Jane at least has warmed to him by the end with no real progression from one state of mind to the next. But its only a little moan. Greenwitch is a worthy addition to the series and not to be missed.
Alex Jennings takes the helm for the reading of this book, as he does for all except book four, and he does a splendid job.

A great adventure/quest! Shared it with my grandson!.......2006-05-02

Greenwitch is a wonderful book. I bought it at a garage sale for my grandson. He's twelve and thinks he's too big for me to read it to him, so let me borrow it when he was through.

We discussed it afterward and agreed that it was an exciting "witch" adventure/quest. It's an older book, but I'm going to try to find the rest of this series.

Ms. Cooper has incorporated all the elements that should make this book a classic to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Great job; highly recommended for boys and girls. Grandparents, too. LOL

Book One continued.......2006-01-26

The third continues from Book one
Along the Cornish shore
With Simon, Jane and Barney Drew
And Merriman once more

Someone's made off with the Grail
It's got to be the Dark
This time Will Stanton's in the mix
And Barney makes his mark

The Grail requires a secret code
To understand the writing
This fell into the deep blue sea
while Light and Dark were fighting

The Greenwitch claims a soggy prize
They need to get it back
While Jane tries her best to be nice
The Dark starts to attack

A lone dark minion on a quest
Gets greedy with his role
He stirs up all the Wild Magic
Before losing control

Will they locate the precious Grail
And break its ancient code?
And will the Greenwitch be appeased
Surrendering her load

For younger fans of fantasy
This series is a must
So go tell your Librarian
"Susan Cooper - or bust!"

Amanda Richards, January 26, 2006

A bittersweet take on a folk tradition/mystery, within the Dark vs Light setting.......2006-01-25

I think this is one of her most magical and enchanting stories. A shining gem in the Dark Is Rising series - not that the others aren't marvelous too, in their own way. The idea of the sad, melancholy elemental, and the child who is the only one to perceive the sadness, and whose sympathy is rewarded - beautiful. And the Cornish setting is drawn with just the right number of deft touches.

Over Sea, Under Stone (The Dark is Rising, Book 1)

Average customer rating:

Enjoyable Adventure story
Outstanding Audio Performance
old stereotypes don't get better with time
Unimpressed
Super Reader

Over Sea, Under Stone (The Dark is Rising, Book 1)
Susan Cooper
Manufacturer: Harcourt Children's Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 015259034X

Book Description

Three English children find clues to an ancient treasure linked to King Arthur and suddenly find themselves in deadly danger, pursued by forces of ancient evil. “A wonderfully well-told story.”--The Horn Book

Customer Reviews:

Enjoyable Adventure story.......2007-09-21

The three Drew children, Simon, Jane and Barney, are on holidays in Cornwall with their mysterious Great- Uncle Merry. One rainy day they stumble on a hidden staircase to the attic of the old house they are staying in. In the attic they find a centuries old manuscript and what appears to be a map.
The manuscript and map appear to give directions to finding the hiding place of the Holy Grail, but the Drew children must decipher the clues quickly, as other, unsavoury people are also after the grail.
Susan Cooper's `Over Sea, Under Stone" is first in the `Dark is Rising' series, but it is really more of an adventure story, rather than a fantasy story. It is an enjoyable story, with the Grail angle adding a little spice to the story

Outstanding Audio Performance.......2007-09-15

"Over Sea Under Stone" is the first of the "Dark is Rising" series by Susan Cooper. At this summer's Harry Potter movie, I saw a preview for the DIR film and thought I'd read the books.

I found the audio book for the first one at the library and thought that would be a relatively low-investment way to get the story. I will say that I have never heard an audiobook performance to equal Alex Jennings. The story was a good kid's tale, with the classic treasure map, quest, and bad guys. It had a few nice touches along the way that made it good, not necessarily great, story. But the audio performance is in a league by itself.

Alex Jennings pulled off the widest range of voices I have ever heard, from the deep and grumbling Uncle Merry to the Irish housekeeper, to the male and female children. His telling of the story was nothing short of remarkable. I look forward to hearing others of his readings in this series. If you read the book and weren't impressed, try the audiobook, and you may come away with a different opinion.

old stereotypes don't get better with time.......2007-08-26

Written in the '60's, this book (and the series that follows it) explores a classic battle between Light and Dark; in Over Sea, Under Stone three children on vacation in Cornwall discover a set of clues that may lead them to recovery of a Grail linked to King Arthur. This book is the least original of the series-- it feels a lot like The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe-- but all of the books suffer from the same problem: the female characters are so out-of-date. Throughout the book, Jane, the middle child, acts like a cross between nagging sister and nagging mom; she is easily scared, she always has a reason not to try to find the Grail, she's the one who's fooled into giving away some secrets, and when the boys go in to explore the frightening cave "poor Jane" (as Cooper calls her) stays outside, standing guard (and screws that up too). Even reading these books in the early 80s as a kid I found the women unlikeable and identified with the boys instead, but at this point Young Adult fantasy has moved so far past that-- with tough, smart girls in works by authors like Tamora Pierce and Diane Duane-- that you have to wonder what the point is of resurrecting these books now-- except for the tie-in with the movie. (This applies to the other books in the series as well; in The Dark Is Rising, Will's sisters are clothes- and boy-obsessed, whiny, and the character who goes to the Dark Side is a weak-willed, vain woman... *yawn*.) With so much good work being written now, why would anyone want their little girls (or little boys) reading this-- and, will children want to read it?

Unimpressed.......2007-08-15

After seeing the movie trailer I was pretty excited to start this series, especially since I am a big fan of fantasy books (Harry Potter, Narnia, Lord of the Rings, etc). However, I couldn't have been more disappointed. There search for the Grail won't be exciting to anyone older than 10, its predictable, unbeilievable, and the characters are underdeveloped and boring. Hopefully this series gets better as i have already bought the second book...

Super Reader.......2007-08-07

The not actually a great uncle great uncle invites his relatives, which includes three children, to Cornwall for the holidays.

He does have an ulterior motive, as the children later realise their 'Gumerry', or Great Uncle Merriman Lyon, is Merlion, or Merlin.

He is leading the forces of the Dark away from the kids, while he, one of the power Old Ones, warriors for the Light serves as a decoy.

He hopes with some clues and firing of the imagination the children will find one of the artifacts of power that will be crucial in the conflict between the superhuman supernatural forces of Light and Dark.

This artifact is The Grail.

He has to hope his misdirection and vigilance will keep the children safe enough, without being able to help directly and endanger them directly.

Silver on the Tree (The Dark is Rising Sequence)

Average customer rating:

Super Reader
Changed My Life
silver on the tree
A wonderful slice of imagination.
Silver on the Tree, ages 9-11 or 11-14?

Silver on the Tree (The Dark is Rising Sequence)
Susan Cooper
Manufacturer: Aladdin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0689840330

Book Description

The Dark is rising in its last and greatest bid to control the world. And Will Stanton -- last-born of the immortal Old Ones, dedicated to keeping the world free -- must join forces with this ageless master Merriman and Bran, the Welsh boy whose destiny ties him to the Light. Drawn in with them are the three Drew children, who are mortal, but have their own vital part in the story. These six fight fear and death in the darkly brooding Welsh hills, in a quest through time and space that touches the most ancient myths of the British Isles, and that brings Susan Cooper's masterful sequence of novels to a satysfying close.

Customer Reviews:

Super Reader.......2007-08-07

The conclusion to the fabulous Dark is Rising sequence brings it all together. The Drew children, Will, Merriman Lyon, Bran, and their human relatives and acquaintances, one of whom will prove crucial, and a traitor will be revealed.

Will and Bran must undergo the most perilous quest, to the find the sword of power.

Again, the clues are poetic :-

I am the womb of every holt,
I am the blaze on every hill,
I am the queen of every hive,
I am the shield for every head,
I am the tomb of every hope --
I am Eirias

At the end, a decision must be made by those who are not mortal, about those who are mortal.

Changed My Life.......2007-07-19

Reading the last sentence of this book 24 years ago changed my life. BOYCOTT the travesty that is the Dark Is Rising film. Keep the pure elements of Cooper alive. The amazing tale she spun, weaving in elements of Celtic/Welsh mythology into a modern narrative leaves me shaking today. This book made me who I am today. I will not stand by and watch it raped and pillaged. READ the BOOK and BOYCOTT the film.

Peace.

silver on the tree.......2006-10-16

For the last time, the Dark will attempt to rise once again. But Will and his friends of the Light will be there to stop it. This book is the ending to an ancient rivalry between the Light and the Dark. For centuries the Old Ones, a group of magical beings, have been preventing the Dark from rising since the beginning of time. I suggest this to people who like books with mystery and magic and magic because this book is full of it. Susan Cooper's series are suspenseful and exciting; you'll always be back for more. When you read this book you'll find out how badly Will and the Light need to defeat the Dark and stop it from rising this one last time.

A wonderful slice of imagination........2006-07-31

This is the magical conclusion to an equally magical series of books. Susan Cooper's seamless mix of timeless legend, wonderful imagination and beautiful use of language, make it difficult to find many to equal her.
Silver On The Tree is a coming together of the prophecies that we've been hearing tantalising titbits from all through the series, and a culminating of the quest of Will Stanton, last of the old ones and his immortal master Meriman, Bran Davis, the welsh boy with an extraordinary destiny, and the three Drew Children, ordinary kids with a knack for being in the thick of things.
This story takes the reader on a rollercoaster ride through time, space and other worlds, with a climax that has you quite literally on the edge of your seat.
There are some extremely moving scenes, and I for one was very sad at the end. What, I cry plaintively, will become of Will?
There now, I hope that wet your apatite.
Just to complete your satisfaction, I can confirm for fans of the audio books that Alex Jennings reads the last book in the series, as he did with nearly all the others, and his high quality narration makes for a delightful listening experience.

Silver on the Tree, ages 9-11 or 11-14?.......2006-05-01

Silver on the Tree, written by Susan Cooper, has a wonderful amount of description to it.
Although I enjoyed some of the books from the series, I must say that many others from the series seemed to have no value to read. My class of 21 students read this, and only about 2 people out of this class actually enjoyed this book. I myself can say I would not rate this book as 9-12, but 11-14 due to the way susan cooper will carry away from the excitement of the story with the description.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed these books, and hope to see more of the age group I think is appropriate will read it.

The Grey King (The Dark is Rising, Book 4)

Average customer rating:

A Book Read in Childhood Still As Good As Ever
Super Reader
It was o.k.
4th volume of THE DARK IS RISING Sequence
Myth, magic, and mystery!

The Grey King (The Dark is Rising, Book 4)
Susan Cooper
Manufacturer: Margaret K. McElderry
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0689500297

Book Description

There is a Welsh legend about a harp of gold, hidden within a certain hill, that will be found by a boy and a white dog with silver eyes -- a dog that can see the wind. Will Stanton knew nothing of this when he came to Wales to recover from a severe illness. But when he met Bran, the strange boy who owned a white dog, he began to remember. For Will is the last-born of the Old Ones, immortals dedicated to saving the world from the forces of evil, the Dark. And it is Will's task to wake -- with the golden harp -- the six who must be roused from their long slumber in the Welsh hills to prepare for the last battle between the Dark and the Light.

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Customer Reviews:

A Book Read in Childhood Still As Good As Ever.......2007-08-25

I read this book when it was first published - I was 7 years old. Now, at the age of 39, it's still just as magical as it was then. After I finish re-reading it after 33 years, I am hoping to share it with my 11 year old son. Hopefully, he will find it as wonderful as I did and STILL DO!

Super Reader.......2007-08-07

The Light again have a prophecy they must try and understand, to again find another of the items of power they need to defeat the Dark.

On the day of the dead, when the year too dies,
Must the youngest open the oldest hills
Through the door of the birds, where the breeze breaks.
There fire shall fly from the raven boy,
And the silver eyes that see the wind,
And the Light shall have the harp of gold.

By the pleasant lake the Sleepers lie,
On Cadfan's Way where the kestrels call;
Though grim from the Grey King shadows fall,
Yet singing the golden harp shall guide
To break their sleep and bid them ride.

When light from the lost land shall return,
Six Sleepers shall ride, six Signs shall burn,
And where the midsummer tree grows tall
By Pendragon's sword the Dark shall fall.

They have a problem, in that Will Stanton has fallen prey to illness, and a very serious one. He has been months recuperating, and sent to stay with acquaintances in Wales.

Making friends with a strange boy named Bran, the two, and the dog Cadval must wend their way through the mysterious misty hills of Wales, past monsters, human agents of the Dark and the Brenin Llwyd to complete their quest.

As a side note, this book will teach you some basic Welsh pronunciation tips.

It was o.k........2007-03-16

The book starts out where Will, an average person, becomes a warrior. The grey King is when something bad happens and he starts a fire preventing them from getting the golden harp. The fire gets closer so they run up some stairs into Bird Rock and all this weird stuff happens. Then Will wishes that he was out of Bird Rock and they appear at the bottom of the steps. The fire is gone so they get the harp and a vortex appears underneath them and Bran, Will's friend plays the harp and it goes away. I did not really get the book after that but at the end this black smoke surrounds everybody.

I gave the book 3 stars. It is the fourth book in a series so if you read the first 3 books first it will make more sense.

4th volume of THE DARK IS RISING Sequence.......2006-06-09

"...Those men who know anything at all about the Light also know that there is a fierceness to its power, like the bare sword of the law, or the white burning of the sun...at the very heart, that is. Other things, like humanity, and mercy, and charity, that most good men hold more precious than all else, they do not come first for the Light. Oh, sometimes they are there; often indeed. But in the very long run the concern of you people is with the absolute good, ahead of all else...At the centre of the Light there is a cold white flame, just as at the centre of the Dark there is a great black pit bottomless as the Universe."
- a mortal speaking as a free agent to an Old One of the Light, herein

And of all the books in the series, THE GREY KING perhaps illustrates that detatchment of the Light from mortal charity more clearly than any book before it since THE DARK IS RISING, with the hard choices it presented to the Old Ones between their duty to the Light and their private obligations to those they loved. Here, however, the choices made are by mortals, from a man who traded away his allegiance in the hope of becoming a great poet to a woman who left her only child among strangers, one of them a man forever marked in turn by her choices.

In each book of this series, either a previously unknown quantity among the major protagonists of the overall story is introduced to the reader, or familiar protagonists from different volumes work together for the first time. In each case, this serves not only to help join together the mundane waking world with the deeper reality of the battleground between the Light and the Dark, but to re-ground readers in the story so far, thus allowing each volume to function as an independent story as well as part of the greater whole.

In THE GREY KING, the Drews do not appear, and an even greater absence casts a shadow on the story - only the youngest of the Old Ones is an active participant, facing the Brenin Llwyd, the Grey King, the greatest Lord of the Dark whose reasons for binding himself to one small part of Wales are beginning to become horribly apparent. And Will Stanton must achieve this quest independently, having only the clues provided by the outcome of an earlier quest and such mortals as he can trust, who live on or near the farm in Wales where Will has been sent to recover from a serious illness. Several of these mortals are unusually perceptive and have their own roles to play in the quest, which this time is not to gain a tool of power for its own sake as a weapon or a defence, but as a stepping stone to more mysterious ends.

At first I was disappointed to find that Alex Jennings (who narrates the other four volumes' unabridged audio editions) wasn't the reader for THE GREY KING, but I decided to take a chance and get Richard Mitchley's recording of this book, trusting that there was a reason for the change, especially when Jennings was tapped for the next (and final) book in sequence.

I now understand the publishers' decision; THE GREY KING needed a narrator who could speak Welsh (not one of Jennings' strengths). I like Mitchley (particularly as Bran Davies) while still enjoying Jennings on the pre-existing characters. Sigh - if only they'd jointly narrated the last two books so I could've had it both ways...

Myth, magic, and mystery!.......2006-05-28

This is the fourth book in Susan Cooper's wonderfully written Dark Is Rising series. Once read, it is a book not easily forgotten. Unlike other authors writing at the same time, Cooper writes with a mature but lyrical prose which in no way talks down to younger readers and consequently can be read and enjoyed by anyone no matter their age.
The story continues to follow the life of Will Stanton, this time convalescing at his aunt's house in Wales. During his stay, he befriends Bran, a boy with an amazing destiny.
The story is powerful and moving and full of legend and magic.
Susan Cooper paints her setting beautifully.
Will has developed more over the series in to a deep and memorable character.
The book is the only one in the series not read by Alex Jennings, but Richard Michly is an excellent narrator, and I'd be happy for either actor to read any audio book of mine. At least I know they'd be read well. I do feel though that you should stick with the same reader through a series, as it helps lend that extra familiarity to the story and the characters.
All in all an excellent book, can't wait to read the last one.

The Dark Is Rising Sequence (Puffin Books)

Average customer rating:

This book's cover isn't the same as the one pictured here
A classic series

The Dark Is Rising Sequence (Puffin Books)
Susan Cooper
Manufacturer: Puffin Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0140316884

Customer Reviews:

This book's cover isn't the same as the one pictured here.......2007-06-01

I lost my 1984 Puffin copy which is the only copy that features all the 5 books in one book and has the black cover (w/ stained glass window) featured on this webpage. May I say that that is the only respectable cover this series ever had. Since then the series had suffered from the cheesiest "fantasy covers". Alas, when I bought this book on Amazon by clicking on this webpage, the product arrived with a different (new cheesy) cover (purple with swords and diamonds - ugh), NOT the one pictured here (even though it has the exact ISBN number as the 1984 edition - guess that doesn't promise the same cover). Still, the series is amazing. Amazing enough for me to keep hunting for the old edition as a rabid collector.

A classic series.......2005-10-01

Susan Cooper's "Dark is Rising" sequence has joined the Prydain Chronicles as timeless books that are technically for kids, but not necessarily JUST for kids. With her use of myth and folklore, rich language, and a time-spanning battle between good and evil, Cooper spins up a rare tale in her majestic prose.

"Over Sea Under Stone" features the three Drew children coming to stay with Merriman Lyon. In his attic, they find an ancient treasure map that leads to a hidden grail -- if they can only figure out what the map's writing and symbols mean. But they are not the only ones who are looking for the grail -- three sinister people are in pursuit.

"The Dark is Rising" shifts its focus elsewhere. On his eleventh birthday, young Will Stanton encounters the mysterious Merriman, and is told that he is the last of the immortal "Old Ones" who are fighting the forces of evil (known as the Dark). As the power of the Dark grows, Will must gather the six Signs that can help stop them -- and protect his friends and family from the Dark.

"Greenwitch" brings the four young heroes together. Will and the three Drew kids are brought to Cornwall, where the grail has been stolen. Jane is haunted by nightmares about the Greenwitch, a symbolic weaving of branches and leaves cast into the sea, and a sinister artist captures Barney. But the Greenwitch is not just a tangle of sticks -- it's alive with wild magic that neither Old Ones nor the Dark can control.

"Grey King" is the threat of the Dark. Will is recovering from an illness in Wales, where he meets a "raven boy" (an albino Welsh boy, Bran) and a dog with "eyes that see the wind" -- part of an old legend. Will must lead Bran into a closer connection with the Old Ones. But when an accident befalls the dog, Bran is angry with the Old Ones -- until the truth of his past comes to light.

"Silver on the Tree" brings the series to a climax. Will receives visions of the past, and a message from Merriman that the final battle between the Dark and the Light is about to come. Evil creatures (minks, specifically) are swarming near his house -- and the Old Ones, while almost ready, don't have the power of the Lady. He teams up with the Drews and with Bran to find the Lost Land.

Sure, fantasy incorporating old myth and legend is nothing new. People have been doing it for as long as the genre has existed. But Susan Cooper brings the idea of time-travelling immortals and ancient magic to life in this, with a hefty dose of adventure and tragedy.

Cooper's writing is detailed and atmospheric, although the first book is much more plainly written than the following four. She can switch instantly from lighthearted to mystical and back again, and her writing is heavy with description. Moreover, she takes the folklore and legends of Britain and interweaves them with Arthurian legend, giving the whole Arthurian story a new spin.

While some may not like the portrayal of good and evil as evenly matched, the strength of the Old Ones' determination is extremely invigorating. They're powerful, but still very human. And there are lessons carefully interwoven about good and evil, about loyalty, compassion, redemption, and friendship. These sentiments are never gooey, just powerful.

The characters are overall quite good. Jane, Barney and Simon Drew are a little less endearing because they seem a little dated and similar. Will Stanton, however, has the sparkling quality of a truly classic character, a mixture of a wise ancient being and a preteen boy. Bran, as the heir of Arthur, is a fantastic accompaniment to Will. And Merriman looms over it all as the all-seeing Merriman, alternately forbidding and dignified or kindly and grandfatherly.

With its majestic prose and entrancing, otherworldly characters, the "Dark is Rising Sequence" is a remarkable piece of work, and one that deserves many rereadings. Outstanding.

Average customer rating:

a pleasant ending for the trilogy begun in Moonstruck Madness
Book Description and third in series
Wonderful and sweet. A perfect finish for the trilogy.
Great

Dark Before the Rising Sun
Laurie McBain
Manufacturer: Avon Books (Mm)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0380798484

Customer Reviews:

a pleasant ending for the trilogy begun in Moonstruck Madness.......2006-04-25

I remember well reading this book in high school and being blown away by the conclusion of the Laurie McBain trilogy. I enjoyed reading the first and second books; Moonstruck Madness and Chance The Winds of Fortune and eagerly waiting for the third. If you can find these books, do so! They are well worth the effort if you can hunt them down!

Book Description and third in series.......2004-12-19

1982, FROM BACK COVER:

A LADY'S PLIGHT
Lady Rhea Claire, fair and flawlessly beautiful daughter of a Duke, was stolen from her father's house -- and shipped to the Colonies as a slave.

A CAPTAIN'S DARING
Dante Leighton, who squandered a Marquis' inheritance in his dissolute youth, pursued his fortune at sea -- and found his destiny in the amethyst eyes of a fascinating woman.

A STORM OF DESIRE
They sailed the West Indian isles, discovering fabulous riches... and the raptures of a love more precious than treasure. On a secluded shore, in an idyll apart from the world, they surrendered themselves to ecstasy. But on returning to England, their joy was beset by a tempest of scandal, spite and murderous peril -- which was the end of their happiness, or the dark before the radiance of their love...

Wonderful and sweet. A perfect finish for the trilogy........2004-07-20

This book was wonderful. I would highly recommend reading the first two books in this trilogy before this one ("Moonstruck Madness" and "Chance the Winds of Fortune") - only because together they create this huge, lush world and story of two families (Sabrina and Lucien's - then Rhea and Dante's) and the people surrounding them.

It was refreshing to read a story where the heroine is such a good and honest person - never trying (or able) to hide her feelings - like in so many other romance novels (even other Laurie McBain novels). Because it is a continuation of "Chance the Winds of Fortune", the two main characters are already together, and this book is more about their continuing relationship, and dealing with their families and old enemies.

Characters from the first two books reappear and are not just token reminders of the old characters - entire chapters are written from their perspective which is so unusual and enriching.

A delicious read. Easily the best romantic trilogy I have ever encountered.

Great.......2002-02-14

This is the third book that started with Moonstruck Madness followed by Chances the Winds of Fortune. This book starts out with Rhea and Dante returning to England. And the couple starting their new life together at his estate where he reclaims his title. Great reading...this book keeps you interested. Rhea's devotion and love to Dante and his to hers is just beautifully written. Plus their is a surprise ending.

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