At this time of year, you can practically feel the earth wheeling on its axis, tilting further and further away from the sun. The winter solstice is coming on fast – darkness swallowing the daylight in big, greedy gulps. The season of transformation is upon us and it’s time to reach for the magical books. Myth, fairy tale, fantasy, horror – whatever story suits your mood, as long as it reminds you that reality is not what it seems.
I have a particular favorite for this time of year: Susan Cooper’s beloved children’s fantasy, “The Dark is Rising.” Set in a rural English village at midwinter, it’s the story of Will Stanton, an ordinary schoolboy and the youngest of seven siblings who discovers on his 11th birthday that he is the last of the "Old Ones" — ancient and immortal servants of the Light in humanity’s great battle against the forces of the Dark. As Will comes into his power, sinister forces rise against a backdrop of English Christmas carols, old manor houses, Arthurian legends, and fierce snowstorms. It’s a deeply satisfying read, equal parts contemporary and mythic, and to my mind, perfectly echoes the season.
I’m not the only fan who re-reads it every year. My father and sister do as well, and to my delight, so does British writer Helen MacDonald, the author of "H is for Hawk."
Do you have a favorite book for the season? What story best expresses the elemental mystery and transformative magic of the encroaching darkness for you? It’s not a book, but I do have one other recommendation: our show about shapeshifting legends and folktales is a great listen at this time of year. Take it with you on a twilight walk or curl up with it in the dark – preferably in front of a fire – and see what kind of dreams it incubates.
Happy listening,
Anne