Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix Date of Publication: 1998 ISBN: 0689817002 Number of Pages: 160

REQUIRED READING ABILITY: Low
GENRES: Science Fiction
THEMES: Family, Prejudice, Good versus Evil, Appearance versus Reality, Isolation

SUMMARY:
In a time of overpopulation resulting in famine and disease, the government has set out laws that allow each family only two children. Luke is the illegal “Third Child,” and has had to spend his whole life hiding. He can't go to school or leave his property, but because his family lives in a fairly remote farming area, he has at least been allowed to play in the fresh air and sun.

As the story begins, a new housing development is being built around Luke's family’s farm. This means that Luke can no longer leave the confines of his home. He has to stay away from widows and can't use the TV, lights, or anything during the day that may give outsiders a clue that he exists. It is while he is hidden in his home that he notices another third child living in one of the new homes nearby. Luke’s curiosity is peaked, and his desperate loneliness convinces him that this is a chance for freedom. He sets out to meet the neighbouring third child, Jen, and together they form a friendship that is fraught with risks. If the Population Police become aware of them, their very lives will be forfeit, but the thrill of having a friend, and the new knowledge he gains from her, make the risks worthwhile. At least, they do until Luke must choose whether to side with her, and openly resist the government, or stay a Hidden Child. The choices he makes set a series of events in motion that will change his life irrevocably forever.

WHO WOULD LOVE THIS BOOK? A kid who...

• likes science fiction
• is interested in apocalyptic versions of earth
• desperately needs a friend
• is misunderstood or overlooked by family
• feels like he or she doesn’t belong
• likes stories with action, risk, and shock value
  

WHAT ELSE?
This is the first in a series of books about the “Shadow Children” and all are wonderful. They continue Luke’s story, as well as that of another character introduced in the second book, Among the Impostors. It has won a number of awards, and is a favourite book with reluctant readers especially. The author has also written many other stories as well.

There is a shocking scene where a main character is violently killed (though is not “on scene” when it occurs, and it is related second-hand.) Be aware that some children will find this upsetting, though generally it is a positive shock, as it provokes tremendous discussion and passion in the reader.

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