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If you want a good adaptation, go to audiodrama, which sticks close to the words, leans into the music implied by the book, and simplifies only to clarify. Changes are well-judged, few, and added with a light touch, (I liked the coda), Will is excellent, and I do believe that's Dame Harriet Vane, excuse me, Walters, adding gravitas as The Lady.
Two very minor quibbles. It feels a trifle rushed now and then, failing to pause for emotional beats to sink in, or dashing through a dramatic sequence on speedrun. But then, that's the nature of abridgement. Also, personally, I expected Merriman to have a deeper, more gravelly voice, a la Peter Capaldi or Christopher Lee. but that's more matter of personal preference.
Other one anyway, I enjoyed it and stayed up half the night because I couldn't stop listening until I'd bibged the whole thing. I am definitely on board if they choose to do any of the other books.
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Susan Cooper’s stunning stories have defied the narrow capabilities of modern entertainment media until now. Artfully produced, this remarkable series respects the powerful original storyline, weaving the mundane and the otherworldly into a listening experience that transports the mind and inspires the imagination. Well done!
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I’ve loved this book for a long time and have read it many times. This is an incredible adaptation, and you really feel like you are there with Will. It’s very immersive, and I actually jumped thinking there was someone behind me talking at one point. The production truly captures the eerie atmosphere and the spirit of the book. The whole series is great (I think I hold the unpopular opinion that the first one, Over Sea, Under Stone, is my favorite), and I hope they will consider adapting the other books in the series, too!
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This radio play adaptation of ‘The Dark Is Rising’ is amazing. The story is lovingly adapted and the wondrous soundscape makes you feel immersed in the action. A brilliant audio epic.
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