Among the Hidden

Haddix, Margaret Peterson.  1998.  Among the Hidden.  New York: Aladdin Paperbacks.  ISBN 0689824750

Don’t be seen. Don’t be heard. You don’t exist. Imagine a world in which these are your commands. For Luke, this is reality. The population is being controlled by the government in an attempt to ration the world’s remaining resources. Not until he looks out at the newly developed homes from his concealed attic window does Luke begin to believe he’s not alone in the world. He meets Jen, another illegal child, who introduces him to a wealth of knowledge and danger as she begins to unveil what has been hidden from him about his own existence.

Haddix creates a believable world in which government control has been mandated, invading the personal rights of all citizens. The terrifying similarities between this fictitious government and those running our countries today are unsettling. The individual characterization of each voice is very well-written, forcing the reader to stop to examine the motives of each person.

The reader will also be intrigued by the developing plot, its twists and turns and the inevitable personal journey taken by Luke. The feeling that this story is not a very distant future adds to the suspense and relevancy of Among the Hidden. For young adults interested in creating a sustainable planet and promoting equity among all individuals, this book will become a fast favorite.

"The seizing of farmlands, untenable food regulations, and other scenarios that have come to fruition in these pages will give readers a new appreciation for their own world after a visit to Luke's."(Kirkus/1998)

"...the fully realized setting, honest characters, and fast paced plot combine for a suspenseful tale of two youngsters fighting for their very existence.” (The ALAN Review/Winter 1999)

Possible Activities:
1. This would be a fantastic choice for a school book club. Earth science, political science, ethics, and sociology are all possible tie-ins.
2. For great discussion questions, see the following guide created for the Multnomah County Library: http://www.multcolib.org/talk/guides-amongthehidden.html