"The Dark is Rising" is a fantasy novel by Susan Cooper, part of the The Dark is Rising Sequence. It follows an eleven-year-old boy named Will Stanton, who discovers he is one of the Old Ones, a group of ancient beings tasked with protecting the world from the forces of Darkness. As Will learns about his powers, he must confront the rising threat of the Dark, which seeks to dominate the world. Set in England, the story unfolds during the winter solstice, a time of great significance in the battle between Light and Dark. Will embarks on a quest to gather the Signs of Light, magical symbols that will help him in his fight. Throughout his journey, he encounters various characters, including Merriman Lyon, who guides him, and the sinister Dark that challenges his resolve.