First published in 1965, this is the first book in the Dark is Rising series for children. I read this book in 2002 and I don’t remember being impressed with it. Fast-forward to 2025 and I gave it another go, finding that I liked it this time around. Although the language is a bit dated and there are whiffs of Blyton, C S Lewis and Nesbit about the set-up, I think it’s a gripping mystery story with an Arthurian theme, which stands the test of time.
When siblings Simon, Jane and Barney go to stay in a strange old house for a holiday in a Cornish village, they find a curious map which may lead them to the grail. However, forces of darkness are working through people close by. The children, with the protection of their mysterious Great Uncle Merry, and the help of Rufus the dog, have to stop the evil ones getting to the artefact.
I didn’t love the word choices in the book – why does the word ‘cheerfully’ pop up so often? – but I enjoyed the dynamic between the siblings and the spooky atmosphere created around the standing stones. There’s a lot of action in the story and never a dull moment. Moreover there’s a strong sense of place, as Cornwall is presented as a foreign country, with people speaking very differently and having their own food, customs, etc. I’m inclined to continue reading the series now…