The Dark Is Rising (The Dark is Rising, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Susan Cooper's The Dark Is Rising, the second book in its series, follows Will Stanton, a seemingly ordinary eleven-year-old boy who discovers he's the last of the Old Ones, powerful beings tasked with combating the encroaching Dark. The novel unfolds during the Christmas season, a time of both great potential and immense peril as the forces of light and darkness clash.

Will's awakening began in the previous book, but in The Dark Is Rising, his powers fully manifest. He receives six signs – a sword, a shield, a stone, a ring, a book, and a harp – objects imbued with ancient magic, and guidance from the Old Ones themselves. These signs, each potent in its own right, act as keys to unlock Will's burgeoning abilities and aid him in his battles against the Dark. He's accompanied by his family, though they are largely unaware of his true destiny, and the other Old Ones, who guide and assist him in cryptic ways. Among these is the Old Woman, a mysterious and powerful figure who tests Will’s strength and resolve.

The central conflict revolves around the escalating power of the Dark, a shadowy force seeking to overwhelm the world. The Dark's agents are cunning and relentless, employing deception and manipulation to undermine the Old Ones. This conflict is not simply a physical battle but a struggle between light and darkness, good and evil, represented symbolically through ancient traditions and the clash between modern and timeless values. The impending return of the Rider, a monstrous being embodying the Dark's ultimate power, looms large, adding a sense of urgency and impending doom.

Throughout his journey, Will undergoes significant personal growth. He learns to trust his instincts and his growing magical abilities. He confronts not only physical threats but also the internal struggles of doubt and fear, typical of an eleven-year-old suddenly burdened with such a significant responsibility. His interactions with the Old Ones, particularly the Old Woman, serve as both training and mentorship, pushing him to reach his full potential.

Cooper masterfully weaves themes of family, loyalty, and self-discovery into the narrative. Will’s relationship with his siblings and parents, though often unexplained due to his secret identity, remains a constant source of support. The story also emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and the strength found in facing adversity. The novel's setting during the Christmas season adds a layer of symbolism, highlighting the themes of light overcoming darkness, hope prevailing over despair, and the enduring power of ancient traditions. The climax involves a direct confrontation with the Dark's forces, testing Will's skills and courage to their limits, setting the stage for the continuing saga in the subsequent books.