Susan Cooper

Speculative fiction and children's literature were permanently enriched by the five-book sequence The Dark is Rising, a landmark series incorporating contemporary fantasy, Arthurian legends, and Welsh folklore. Author Susan Cooper created this multi-award-winning work alongside a versatile writing career spanning journalism, theater, film, picture books, and adult literature.

Career & Background

Born Susan Mary Cooper in Burnham, Buckinghamshire, England, in 1935, she spent much of her childhood in air-raid shelters during World War II. She earned a degree from Somerville College, Oxford, and subsequently worked as a reporter and feature writer for the London Sunday Times before moving to the United States in 1963. Over the following decades, her creative output extended across multiple media, including novels for children and adults, a Broadway play, feature films, and Emmy-nominated screenplays. Her non-fiction writing for adults includes The Magic Maker, a portrait of Revels founder Jack Langstaff. In recognition of her lifelong contributions to teen and fantasy literature, Cooper was honored with the Margaret A. Edwards Award in 2012 and the World Fantasy Award for life achievement in 2013. She currently lives and writes in Marshfield, Massachusetts.

Writing Style & Themes

Cooper's signature approach combines British mythology, Welsh folk history, and deep-seated legend with modern everyday settings, exploring fundamental conflicts between light and dark. Her works range from high fantasy to historical fiction, frequently depicting young protagonists discovering ancient magical roots embedded in familiar landscapes. In addition to her epic fantasy sequences and historical novels, Cooper has maintained a vibrant output for younger readers, publishing middle-grade novels such as The Boggart Fights Back alongside acclaimed picture books including The Word Pirates and The Shortest Day, both published in 2019.

Major Works

• The Dark is Rising — A classic five-book fantasy sequence combining British legend and contemporary fiction. The series earned a Newbery Medal, a Newbery Honor Award, and two Carnegie Honor Awards.
• The Magic Maker — An adult biographical work offering a detailed portrait of Jack Langstaff, the founder of Revels.
• The Boggart Fights Back — A children's novel continuing her popular fantasy series featuring traditional Scottish folklore spirits in modern settings.
• The Shortest Day — A 2019 picture book adapting her celebrated poem celebrating the winter solstice.
• The Word Pirates — A 2019 picture book illustrating her imaginative storytelling for early readers.