A review by mrlmnop
The Dark Is Rising [Dramatisation] by Susan Cooper

fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

This review is for the BBC dramatized podcast adaptation. I listen to a lot of audiobooks but I’m not used to fully cast productions like this with different voice actors and music and sound effects. I didn’t like it at first, but by the end of the first chapter I’d gotten used to it and was even enjoying it. 

That said, I feel they cut way too much to fit into the podcast format, to the point where I often felt completely lost. It felt kind of like when you’re watching a movie on TV but you keep stepping away to go stir the soup or walk the dog or answer the phone. I could follow the gist, but always felt like I’d joined in the middle.

I might try a read through of the full, unabridged version. I think there’s a good story here (obviously, it’s a much loved series), but I wouldn’t recommend this podcast version unless you’re already familiar with the book.