THE WEEPING TIDE, by Amanda Foody, Margaret K. McElderry Books, Feb. 1, 2022, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 8-12)
Return to a world where humans bond with magical beasts in the second book of Amanda Foody’s Wilderlore series, The Weeping Tide.
Something is wrong at the Sea. The weeping tide, a carnivorous algae bloom, is eating up all the fish. Beasts are terrorizing the nearby Elsewheres. And Lochmordra, the Legendary Beast, is rising at random and swallowing ships whole.
Barclay’s teacher, the famous Guardian Keeper Runa Rasgar, has been summoned to investigate, and as her apprentice, Barclay gets to join too. But Runa’s nemesis has also been called to the Sea, and he’s brought apprentices of his own. When the not-so friendly competition between them grows fierce, it’s Barclay — the only one from the Elsewheres — who can’t seem to keep up.
The key to stopping Lochmordra lies in his mythical home, but as the flood of the weeping tide encroaches, time is running out to find it. If the rival groups can’t cast aside old grudges and learn to work together, soon the Sea will be destroyed completely. And all the while Barclay must ask himself: is there truly a place for him in the Wilderlands? —Synopsis provided by Margaret K. McElderry Books
As is often the case with series, the books in Amanda Foody’s Wilderlore should be read in order. If you have not already read The Accidental Apprentice then The Weeping Tide will make no sense to you. And if it’s been a long time since reading the first book, I suggest rereading it prior to the second so that you don’t miss out on any of the nuances.
That said, The Weeping Tide is an excellent follow-up.
Foody’s world-building continues to amaze with new settings, creatures and characters playing roles in The Weeping Tide. And yet, the author manages to keep things reined in. Her world is expansive, but action is limited to the Sea.
Barclay is again the main character, but his fellow apprentices, Viola and Tadg, are better developed, making for a strong trio front and center.
As a middle-grade fantasy adventure, the Wilderlore series has a lot going for it. It’s approachable with action throughout. Widespread appeal should continue with The Weeping Tide.
