This series is truly a hidden treasure.

It is an absolute must-read for fans of the more well-known Chronicles of Narnia and Wrinkle in Time series. Just like those books, this series is written for (and about) children and explores the battle between the Light (good) and the Dark (evil). However, it has the charm and depth that makes it enjoyable for people of all ages.

But be warned, this series starts very slowly. I often found myself putting the first book down repeatedly because the plot line develops at a slow pace. Nevertheless, my perseverance paid off. Once things started to gather steam, I soon found myself completely captivated and couldn't wait to fly through the other books in the series.

The gradual build-up in the beginning actually adds to the overall experience, as it allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in the world and characters.

So, if you're willing to be patient and give this series a chance, you'll be rewarded with a magical and engaging adventure that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

My absolute favourite series as a child was truly a gem. It's such a great shame that no one seems to know about this remarkable series. It was truly sublime. The characters were so vivid and engaging, and the storylines were full of excitement and adventure. I would eagerly await each new installment, completely captivated by the world that had been created. Every time I picked up one of the books, I would be transported to a different place and time. It was a magical experience that I will always cherish. I really wish more people could discover and enjoy this wonderful series. Maybe one day, it will gain the recognition it truly deserves and become a beloved classic for generations to come.

I first read these books about twenty years ago, when I was just 9 years old.

Subsequently, I forgot about them, although certain images and scenes have been rumbling around in my head for the better part of a decade.

These scenes had managed to imprint themselves very deeply, so that long after the name of the author and the titles of the books were forgotten, I kept coming back to these flashes.

Recently, I managed to get someone to identify the story on the scifi stackexchange.

I immediately purchased this box set and read through all five books in about two days' time.

Needless to say, I was sorely disappointed.

The books are terrible.

I know that at least two of them are Newberry award winners, but I really found them unbearably difficult to read.

In fact, I can't imagine how difficult it must have been to slog through at the age of nine.

The books tell of an ancient and ongoing battle between the Light and the Dark, with champions on either side striving to take control of the earth and humanity.

Arthurian legend is heavily recycled.

There are objects of power, Edith Blyton type children running about on quests, and seemingly all-powerful beings who nevertheless are always just one step behind the enemy.

The storyline is just barely clear.

The characters are extremely flat.

Substantial explanation and pontificating on the part of a narrator.

At no point does one actually feel that the characters actually worked through a problem.

The answer is always just suddenly clear, or someone swoops in to save the day.

I found it almost impossible to relate to them.

Bottom line: I would probably not recommend these to my nine-year-old self.

Better to get an early start on true epic fantasy from Jordan, Rothfuss and Sanderson.

The five books in ‘The Dark is Rising Sequence’ hold a special place in my heart as some of the most cherished books from my childhood. I possess the old Puffin paperbacks that my aunt bought for me on my 11th birthday, each costing $2.75. I have read them countless times, and they now bear the marks of wear and tear, with battered spines, creased pages, and faded covers. This Christmas, I embarked on a re-reading journey as part of an international reading challenge initiated on Twitter by British authors Robert Macfarlane and Mary Bird.

Thousands of readers joined in to read The Dark is Rising, the second book in the series, which takes place between Midwinter Eve (20th December) and Twelfth Night (5th January). Some, like me, devoured the book in one sitting, while others read each chapter on the date corresponding to the events in the story, reading 1-2 chapters a day. Readers shared their memories of the book, engaged in discussions about the meaning of symbols and events, created original art, and found kindred spirits. It was an absolutely wonderful experience.

I then went on to read all five books in the series. Over Sea, Under Stone, the first book, was written by Susan Cooper in response to a publishing contest honoring Edith Nesbit. Despite not finishing the manuscript in time to enter, it was eventually accepted by Jonathan Cape and published in 1965. The story follows Simon, Jane, and Barney as they go on a holiday to Cornwall and become involved in a quest to find the lost Holy Grail. Drawing on Arthurian mythology and set in contemporary times, the book introduces their Great-Uncle Merry, a professor at Oxford with mysterious powers. It has an old-fashioned mystery feel, with eerie moments of darkness and magic, especially towards the end.

The second book, The Dark is Rising, published in 1973, tells the story of Will Stanton, a seventh son of a seventh son who turns 11 on Midwinter Eve and discovers his world is threatened by strange events. He learns he is an Old One, destined to fight for the Light against the Dark. Merriman Lyon, the character of Great-Uncle Merry, returns as Will's guardian and mentor. Will must find Six Signs to defeat the forces of darkness and fulfill a mysterious prophecy. This book is my favorite in the series, perhaps because it was the first I read, or because of the vivid setting of a snow-bound English village with hidden magic and danger, or because I loved the idea of an ordinary boy with an extraordinary destiny. It won the ALA Newbery Honor Book in 1974 and is often listed as one of the best children's books ever published.

Greenwitch, the third book, brings Simon, Jane, and Barney back to the Cornish village where they found the Grail. Jane witnesses an ancient ritual and makes a wish that helps the Light unlock its secrets. It is a favorite among many female readers as the key protagonist is a girl who triumphs through compassion and empathy.

The Grey King, the fourth book, returns to Will's point of view. After a long illness, he has no memory of his role as an Old One and is at risk from the Dark. Sent to Wales to recover, he meets Bran, an albino teenager with a strange dog. Together, they must find the golden harp to wake the Sleepers. This is my second favorite book, due to the wonderful portrayal of the wild Welsh mountains and moors and the sense of the great struggle between good and evil. It won the 1976 Newbery Medal.

Silver on the Tree, the final book, brings all the characters together as they search for a magical crystal sword to cut the mystical mistletoe in the final battle against the Dark. Drawing on Welsh mythology and stories of a drowned land, the presence of a hidden enemy adds to the suspense.

Re-reading this series was truly a wonderful experience, as it had a powerful impact on my imagination as a child. Sharing it with like-minded people through the Twitter book club was an added pleasure. The club, set up by Robert Macfarlane and Mary Bird, plans to choose other great works of fantastical literature to read over the year, and I can't wait to be a part of it.

I have meticulously arranged a reading of this book/series throughout the year, and it has turned out to be the perfect final book review of the year.

These stories have been my support during what could very well be the most challenging year of my life. This is precisely what I mean when I state that books are my closest friends. They truly carry me through.

This series holds profound meaning for me. Each time I read it, my love for it deepens. And, yes, once more I am feeling an intense longing to finally learn the Welsh language. This is the book of my people.

My 2nd great-grandfather is named John Rowland (Lloyd), which had a powerful impact on me the first time I read this. I even discovered a passage about Florida this time around that I had no memory of ever reading before!

I'm not entirely sure if I can accurately express in words exactly why this series is so significant to me. So, I will simply record some of the more cherished quotes and continue to implore everyone to read this series.

"Barney never knew afterwards what put the words into his head; he spoke before he thought, almost as if someone else were speaking through him. He heard himself saying clearly, 'In the name of King Arthur, and of the old world before the dark came.'"

"Minds hold more than they know."

"Jane and Simon sat again in the book-clothed living-room with Captain Toms."

"All that could be seen in him was the urge to hurt, and it was, as it always will be, the most dreadful sight in the world."

"It is stillness, Will realized, was the stillness of the High Magic, a power beyond Light or Dark or any allegiance - the strongest and most remote force in the universe, which soon in this place he and Bran must face."

"They have brains enough to judge a man by what he has proved himself to be, not by some mistake he may or may not have made a long time ago."

"No," Jane said. "We've never been to Wales before, Barney. But Dad's grandmother was born here. Right in Aberdyfi. Perhaps memories can float about in your blood or something."

"You can't shout rude rhymes for an echo," Barney said coldly. "Echoes are special. People ought to...to sing them."

"Sing!" said Jane. The small children were still screeching at the mountain; she looked at them with distaste.

"Well, why not? Or do some Shakespeare."

"Because the Dark can only reach people at extremes - blinded by their own shining ideas, or locked up in the darkness of their own heads."

"Real is a hard word, almost as hard as true, or now..."

"The slow words came from so deep a despair, like a black pit giving back no sound when a stone is dropped in, that the small hairs crawled on the back of Will's neck. It was listening to a dead man speak."

"The Norman rides always on the back of the Dark, as the Saxon did, and the Dane."

"This is the most menacing rising of the Dark - when it will rise not through the spilling of blood but through the coldness in the hearts of men."

"I do not believe any power can possess the mind of a man or woman, Blod - or whatever your name should really be. I believe in God-given free will, you see. I think nothing is forced on us, except by other people like ourselves. I think our choices are our own. And you are not possessed therefore, you must be allied to the Dark because you have chosen to be - terrible though that is for me to believe after all these long years."

"All love has great value. Every human being who loves another loves imperfection, for there is no perfect being on this earth."

If this series had been released in 2000, it would surely have landed on the bestseller list for young adults. However, it was ahead of its time by a full twenty years. The copy that I read was part of a new edition, with all the books combined into one. I assume this was done to ride the coattails of the Potter craze.

I think the size of the combined volume was probably rather intimidating for many.

I vividly remember reading it as a child and being completely engrossed. As an adult, I wanted to revisit it to see if it still held the same charm. And it did. The story is imaginative and filled with subtle details. It's a great read for any fantasy enthusiast, especially those who have a particular interest in Arthurian legends.

The series offers a unique and captivating world that draws the reader in and keeps them hooked from beginning to end. Whether you're a young adult or an adult looking for a good fantasy read, this series is definitely worth checking out.

My copy of this book, which features one of the worst cover illustrations ever, encompasses all 5 books in The Dark is Rising series. I've never delved into it before, but I'm intrigued as one of the books won a Newbery Award and another a Newbery Honor. I completed the first book, Over Sea, Under Stone, in early April. Given that it's a hefty hardback and I was traveling at the time, I set it aside for a while. Now, I'm picking it back up to embark on the second book, The Dark is Rising.

Over Sea, Under Stone (c1965) would rate about 3 stars from me. It's a sort of classic sibling summer vacation adventure/mystery set in England, complete with a mysterious Great-Uncle, murderous strangers, and Arthurian Legends and artifacts.

On 7/6/2013, I finished The Dark is Rising tonight. I'd also give it 3 stars. It's the tale of Will Stanton, the seventh son of a seventh son, who discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is one of the Old Ones, endowed with special magic and also the Sign-Seeker. He must collect six special signs to hold back the rising Dark. The Dark Rider tries to hinder Will at every step, but with the guidance of Merriman (the mysterious Great-Uncle in Over Sea, Under Stone) and the support of other Old Ones in his area, Will learns more about himself and his power and endeavors to find all the signs.

The story was interesting enough, yet not so captivating that I felt compelled to pick it up and read it constantly. Many things that Will requires seem to conveniently materialize at precisely the perfect moment, resulting in a lack of suspense/danger and a sense of reality. However, I'm still curious to see what occurs in the next book, The Greenwitch, when the characters from the first and second books converge. But first, I'm going to take another break and read some other materials.

On 12/11/2013, since I completed "reading" this series on audio and finished the last book, Silver on the Tree, today, I'm going to mark it as read. I reviewed the last three books in their audio records. I'm glad to have read the series and enjoyed the last books more than the first couple. Nevertheless, I don't think it's one that I'd keep or re-read. Overall, I'd probably assign the series 3.5 stars.

A series that I have cherished for many years. It is a children's book series, which means it may not appeal to everyone.

To fully comprehend the story arc and the overall narrative, it is evident that one needs to read all the books in the series. However, I would highly recommend commencing with the second book, "The Dark is Rising" (which shares the same name as the entire series).

My absolute favorite within the series, and also the first one that I read, was "The Grey King". I did not experience any sense of loss or confusion by starting with this particular book. In fact, perhaps it was precisely because of this unique reading experience that I developed a profound liking for the entire series.

So, go ahead and enjoy this wonderful series... if you dare!

So only books 1 - 2 out of 5 were familiar to me.

Yet, I was certain that I had read the entire thing previously. It's quite odd, isn't it?

The story wasn't as captivating as I recalled. However, I still think it's above average in terms of both interest and quality.

Mainly, I just don't have the patience anymore for the type of fantasy story that involves "taking these steps to solve the puzzle."

Nevertheless, the characters in the story are quite sweet.

They add a certain charm to the overall narrative, making it somewhat enjoyable despite my lack of enthusiasm for the puzzle-solving aspect.

Perhaps if I were in a different mood or had more time to invest, I might have a different perspective on the story.

But for now, this is my take on it.

This under-rated children's fantasy series holds a special place that lies between The Chronicles of Narnia and His Dark Materials. It has a remarkable charm that captivates young readers and adults alike.

What makes this series truly unique is its heavy reliance on Arthurian mythology. The rich and enchanting world of King Arthur and his knights serves as the backdrop, providing a wealth of inspiration for the story. However, the author takes these familiar themes and plays with them in the most delightful way.

The characters are well-developed and engaging, each with their own distinct personalities and motives. The plot is filled with adventure, mystery, and magic, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Whether it's the search for the Holy Grail or the battle against evil forces, there is never a dull moment in this series.

Overall, this under-rated children's fantasy series is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. It combines the best of Arthurian mythology with a fresh and imaginative take on the genre, creating a world that readers will love to explore again and again.

Amazingly written! The author's use of very descriptive and creative language is truly remarkable. It has the power to transport you right into the heart of the action and the environment. With every word, you can vividly picture the scenes unfolding before your eyes. The storyline is equally captivating. It keeps you constantly involved and deeply interested in what's going to happen next. You find yourself on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages to discover the next twist and turn. This piece of writing is a real gem. It engages your senses, stimulates your imagination, and leaves you with a sense of satisfaction. Loved it!

This story was truly a delight to read. It was not only easy to understand but also highly engaging from start to finish.

The plot was captivating, pulling me in and keeping my attention throughout. I found myself completely immersed in the story and its characters.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who has a passion for good literature. It's the kind of story that leaves you with a sense of satisfaction and a longing for more.

Sadly, when it came to an end, I felt a twinge of sadness. However, this also made me even more eager to explore other works by this talented author.

I can't wait to see what else they have in store for readers and continue to be amazed by their storytelling abilities.