Dark Peak

During a school trip to Lud's Church, two children, Stephanie and Stephen, go missing. Porter and Sam are sent to fetch help, but when they return, they find that Stephanie has been found, but no one is looking for Stephen. Porter feels that supernatural forces from deep in the past are at play. Marcus Sedgwick's novel is a compelling tale for less-confident readers that fuses mythology and mystery.

Format: Mixed media product
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

In the scorching heat of a long summer, two children, Stephanie and Stephen, vanish during a school trip to Lud's Church, a deep chasm nestled in the heart of the Peak District. Panic ensues as their teacher, Mr. Porter, and his friend, Sam, are dispatched to seek help. Upon their return, they are astonished to discover that Stephanie has been found, but there is no trace of Stephen. The question arises: why has everyone forgotten about him? What sinister events unfolded in the eerie confines of Lud's Church? And why does Porter feel an unsettling presence of supernatural forces from ancient times?

Marcus Sedgwick weaves a captivating tale that blends mythology and mystery, making it an ideal choice for less confident readers. The story unfolds with a sense of urgency as Porter and Sam race against time to unravel the mysteries surrounding Stephen's disappearance. As they delve deeper into the church's history and the surrounding landscape, they encounter strange occurrences and ancient symbols that hint at a dark and sinister force lurking in the shadows.

The characters in the story are well-developed, with each possessing their unique traits and motivations. Porter, the teacher, is portrayed as a determined and resourceful individual who will stop at nothing to protect his students. Sam, on the other hand, is a loyal friend who is willing to risk everything to help his friend. Stephanie, the missing child, is portrayed as a brave and resourceful girl who is determined to survive whatever challenges she faces.

The setting of Lud's Church adds to the suspense and atmosphere of the story. The church, with its imposing walls and eerie silence, serves as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding events. The Peak District, with its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes, adds to the sense of isolation and danger that the characters face.

The plot of the story is filled with twists and turns, keeping the reader engaged and guessing until the very end. Sedgwick skillfully weaves together mythology, mystery, and suspense to create a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The ending is particularly satisfying, leaving the reader with a sense of closure and a newfound appreciation for the power of friendship and determination.

In conclusion, "Lud's Church" is a captivating tale that blends mythology and mystery to create a compelling story for less confident readers. Marcus Sedgwick's skillful writing and well-developed characters keep the reader engaged and guessing until the very end. The setting of Lud's Church adds to the suspense and atmosphere, and the plot is filled with twists and turns that keep the reader hooked. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good mystery and is looking for a story that will leave them thinking long after the last page.

Weight: 148g
Dimension: 133 x 198 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198494973
Edition number: 1