Among the Hidden

Genre and Awards

• Among the Hidden is classified as a dystopian novel aimed at young adult readers.
• Nominated for the prestigious Children’s Book Award in Great Britain.
• Received the Young Hoosier Book Award in Indiana.

Unique Aspects

• Stands out due to its engaging depiction of a controlled society where third children are illegal.
• Offers a suspenseful narrative that raises questions about freedom, individuality, and societal rules.

Societal Issues

• Illustrates themes of population control and the consequences of authoritarian governance.
• Highlights the struggles faced by individuals who conform to societal norms versus those who resist.

Reader Reaction

• The ending elicits strong emotional responses, often leaving readers feeling both hopeful and apprehensive about the future.
• Invokes a sense of urgency regarding the characters’ plight and the implications of their struggles.

Author Insights

• Margaret Peterson Haddix is recognized for her ability to craft suspenseful narratives that provoke critical thought about societal issues.
• Known for blending thrilling elements with deeper social commentary, showcasing her versatility as an author.

Setting

• Set in a future world where population control laws lead to the abduction and hiding of illegal third children.
• The narrative primarily unfolds in a rural area, emphasizing the isolation experienced by the protagonist.

Protagonist's Life

• Luke, the protagonist, differs from his peers due to his status as a hidden child, restricted from living freely in society.
• Experiences a life of secrecy, longing for social interaction and normalcy that others his age enjoy.