The Dark Is Rising - Susan Cooper

The Dark Is Rising is a book for children and young adults.  It's about a boy in England who comes of age when he turns 11 and finds out he's got magical powers and the world depends on him.  It's a pretty daunting birthday gift.  He has allies that help train him and back him up in his fight against the dark.  Unlike some young adult books, this story actually avoids swearing and sex.  I applaud that.  While parts are hard to believe, remember it's magic and anything is possible.  This book is the second in a series, but I didn't realize that until I finished reading it and the other books were mentioned in the epilogue.  The story stands on it's own just fine.  Highly recommended.