Author(s): Peter Lancett

Young Adult Fiction

This title is one of a series of reading books for children and young adults aged 11 and over who are struggling to read. Dark Man is a fiction series for older children and young adults who have a reading age of approximately 5 to 8. Each book features the character Dark Man, a shadowy, brooding loner who shuns society, living in the shadows. Recruited to play a part in a secret, cataclysmic struggle between good and evil, his continued mission is to seek out an artefact, a Golden Cup, which can channel limitless power and energy. Opposed to him, and also seeking to find this cup of power, is a sinister and corrupt organisation, The Shadow Masters.The book has a strong plot to engage the reader, however reluctant, and features dark evocative illustrations. The simple, carefully written text (under 400 words) focuses on the most common words, providing access for even the poorest readers. In "The Dark Fire of Doom" the Dark Man must search under the city for the magic fire, which is an evil gateway used by demons. Somehow, the Dark Man must close this gateway. Software and teacher's support materials are also available.