Feeling a bit torn about the final volume of the Dark is Rising series. The penultimate book brings together all of the characters from the previous books to finally vanquish the Dark. Silver on the Tree has the beautiful descriptions and allusions to Celtic mythology and Arthurian legend that were highlights of the previous volumes, and I really enjoyed the final quests and bits of time travel. There are parts that would be appropriately scary for the kids reading it, and some very adult themes as well about love and loss. I was a little disappointed, however, at how the series was closed and how the ending impacted the main characters, especially Bran and the Drew children. 
 What follows are some spoiler filled comments...read at your own peril. I realize they come across as a little harsh, but I think these remarks are fair. 
 (view spoiler)[I started the series with Over Sea, Under Stone, which is considered by many to be more of a prequel. Anyhow, I grew very attached to the Drew children. As the series progressed they grew out of their childish ways and began showing signs of the adults they will become, all the while still participating in a fantastic journey with the wonder only a child can experience. In the last volume, instead of being able to show how they've grown, they simply had stuff happen to them, or they were told what to do by Merriman or Will. Jane has to be rescued, Barney has to be rescued, Simon did a lot of standing around. And then, after the final victory, their memories are wiped!!!! They got the Donna Noble treatment!!!! UGH THAT IS THE WORST. Especially since, right before he took their memories, Merriman gave them a terrific speech about free will and that we can't wait for any saviors, that we have to take care of each other. They assisted in saving the world (granted with the help of magic) and he took that from them!!!! I protest. 
 Ditto for Bran. He grew into quite the young man, got to meet his real father, then BOOM!!! Memory wipe! GRRRRRR. NO FAIR. 
 Will gets to remember everything. Of course. 
 Final complaint...there are hints that Bran and Jane might have some young love type feelings for each other but that is never explored. I would have them hook up in the fan fic sequel. (hide spoiler)]