Among the Hidden

ALA Best Book for Young Adults

Citation:

Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix. (Aladdin Paperbacks, 2000).  153p. Science Fiction Junior Book.

Summary:

Luke, a third child, lives hidden and in fear of being discovered by the Population Police until he befriends another “third.”

Critique:

a.         The story of Luke, a shadow child, pulls at the heartstrings of a parent of multiple children and reels in the reader with the feelings of fear, sympathy, and hope.

b.         The plight of Luke unfolds as the narrator shares his feelings of being alone, hopeless, scared, and brave as he searches for a life outside of the shadows.  When at his lowest point of self-pity, Luke makes a discovery that consumes his thoughts and eventually alters his life and future.  The author describes Luke’s feelings with such detail that the reader can envision him in situations and sympathize for his circumstances.

c.         “He took a deep breath, looking forward toward the Sports Family’s house, then back again toward his own.  He thought about returning home – trudging up the worn stairs, back to his familiar room and the walls he stared at every day.  Suddenly he hated his house.  It wasn’t a sanctuary.  It was a prison” (p.55) is the exact moment that Luke’s life changed in a way he never could have expected or fathomed.  

Curriculum Connection:  

Among the Hidden is a story that a middle school student could read when expected to understand laws that limit personal liberties or how a few people can make a difference.  The story may be interesting to upper elementary age students as well, but the graphic descriptions may be too much for them, unless it is being used as a follow-up to the Social Studies Trail of Tears lessons.