One-line summary:

In the dystopian novel “Among the Hidden,” Luke, a third child in a society where families are only allowed to have two children, must hide his existence and navigate a world where his very existence is illegal.

The Hidden Life of Luke:

Luke Garner is a twelve-year-old boy who lives in a world where families are strictly limited to having only two children. As the third child in his family, Luke is forced to live in hiding, never allowed to leave his family’s farm. His parents fear that if he is discovered, he will be taken away by the Population Police, a government agency responsible for enforcing the strict population control laws.

Luke’s days are filled with loneliness and boredom as he spends his time hidden away in the attic, observing the outside world through a small vent. He longs for the freedom to play outside like other children and dreams of attending school. However, his existence must remain a secret, and he must be constantly vigilant to avoid detection.

A Glimpse of Hope:

One day, while peeking through his vent, Luke notices a face in the window of the neighboring house. He discovers that there is another hidden child, just like him. Her name is Jen, and she is a brave and rebellious girl who dreams of overthrowing the oppressive government and fighting for the rights of third children.

Jen introduces Luke to a secret online community called the Population Police, where hidden children can connect and share their experiences. Through this community, Luke learns that there are many others like him, living in fear and isolation. Jen’s boldness inspires Luke, and he begins to question the unjust laws that govern their society.

A Dangerous Journey:

As Luke becomes more involved with the Population Police, he realizes that their plans for rebellion are risky and dangerous. Jen wants to organize a rally to protest the government’s population control policies, but Luke is hesitant to join. He fears the consequences of being caught and worries about the safety of his family.

Despite his reservations, Luke decides to support Jen and attend the rally. However, things take a turn for the worse when the rally is ambushed by the Population Police. Luke manages to escape but is devastated to learn that Jen has been killed. Her death serves as a reminder of the harsh reality they face and the sacrifices they must make for their freedom.

Key Takeaways:

• The novel explores themes of identity, freedom, and the power of standing up against injustice.
• It highlights the importance of community and the strength that can be found in unity.
• The story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of a society that restricts individual rights and freedoms.

“Just because you don’t see something doesn’t mean it isn’t there.”

In “Among the Hidden,” Margaret Peterson Haddix crafts a compelling narrative that captivates readers with its exploration of a dystopian society and the struggles of a young boy fighting for his right to exist. Through Luke’s journey, readers are reminded of the value of freedom, the power of community, and the need to challenge unjust laws. The book serves as a poignant reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and resilience can prevail.