• Age: 12 to 18
• Grade: 8 to 12
• Reading age: 12 to 18

A remote bay in the Pacific Northwest has held a secret for thousands of years…and that secret just woke up.

Kai is angry when he’s forced to join his new stepfather, Rick, on a research trip to Blind Bay. On a floating lab in the middle of nowhere. Rick, a marine biologist, is using sound waves to explore deep underwater caves. But they discover that the sound pulses have awakened something. Something that is now hunting them—an ancient predator from the depths of the caves. Soon the tide will turn, unleashing the creature out into the open ocean…and upon the world. Kai and his stepdad need to find a way to work together to stop the creature before the tide turns.

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for teen readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

Sean Rodman's profile page

• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
• Commended, Junior Library Guild (JLG) Gold Standard Selection

Sean Rodman is the author of numerous books for young people, including One Last Job in the Orca Anchor line and The Bodyguard and Firewall in the Orca Soundings line. Sean is the executive director of Story Studio, a charity that inspires, educates and empowers youth to be great storytellers. He lives in Victoria, British Columbia.

“Engaging and hooks readers from start to finish... Plot twists and turns are intriguing and add depth to the short novel. A great read for reluctant readers who enjoy action, adventure, and books dealing with cryptids. Recommended.”

School Library Journal

“Many teens will identify with the tension that often happens between stepparents and stepchildren. This book…can reinforce strategies that build cooperation, trust, and stronger family ties.”

Canadian Teacher Magazine

“The premise is exciting and the fast pace will keep pages turning.”

Kirkus Reviews

“Dark Tide brings a lot to the table…A solid hi-lo novel…that would make a great addition to a classroom library. Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“If one is looking for a quick, thrilling tale, this book can be finished in a day or an extended reading session under the covers in the dark.”

Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)