The Diamond Of Darkhold

Doon, a 13-year-old boy, lives with his father, Lorris, in the old Pioneer Hotel just outside the village of Sparks. He is naturally inquisitive. He understands that learning is the key to progress, and that learning comes from observation, experimentation, record-keeping, and books. After leading citizens out of Ember and helping those from Ember and Sparks understand one another earlier in the series, Doon becomes intent on easing the struggles of the Sparks settlement in The Diamond of Darkhold. He initiates the quest with his best friend Lina to their old city of Ember, certain that the city’s Builders left a mysterious, helpful device for his people. His decisions and actions reveal his empathy for others and his determination to contribute to the common good.

Doon, however, suffers setbacks in this novel that threaten his optimism and outlook. He must convince Lina to quest with him, as she is uncertain about returning to Ember in secret. He must escape captivity from the Troggs, whose belittling attitudes and lack of respect for Ember exasperate and anger him. He must then sacrifice the treasured diamond once he finally has it to save Lina. Along with a badly sprained ankle, these struggles cause Doon’s typical focus and idealism to ebb away until he is ready to give up.