Instructions:  Conduct research about a recent current event using credible sources. Then, compile what you’ve learned to write your own hard or soft news article. Minimum: 250 words. Feel free to do outside research to support your claims.  Remember to: be objective, include a lead that answers the...

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Breaking Free of the Shadows: A Look at Among the Hidden
Margaret Peterson Haddix’s suspenseful and action-packed novel Among the Hidden is the first of 7 books in the Shadow Children series, published on March 1, 1998. It emphasizes and delves into two major themes: friendship and resistance. It not only builds up a dystopian world but also highlights friendship and freedom. The action in this novel is intriguing because it is driven by danger and internal transformation, sparked by the main character’s friendship with the supporting one.
This story focuses on a twelve-year-old third-born child called Luke Garner who lives in a totalitarian government that bans third-borns from existing. Living his entire life hiding, Luke is not even allowed to eat at the dining table with his parents due to fear of discovery. However, one day, after seeing a girl’s face in a window, he forms a close relationship with the girl (another third-born). The girl, Jen, is outgoing, brave, reckless, willing to risk anything for her freedom. Yet, after a tragic incident shatters Luke’s life, he continues by himself, in a new identity.
An impactful aspect of this novel is Luke’s encounter with Jen, marking Luke’s personal growth. Jen’s bravery and confidence contrast with Luke’s cautious personality. For instance, Jen declares confidently, “We won’t leave them [government] alone until they give us the same rights everybody else has.” Jen is a Baron, a child of a wealthy family. Luke is a child of poor farmers whose restrictions are imposed even further than the Barons’. Therefore, Jen enjoys privileges that Luke has never imagined (access to junk food and the internet) despite them being illegal. This inequality reveals the government’s injustice and expands Luke’s perception of the real world. More importantly, Jen acts as a symbol of resistance and freedom. Her passionate attitude challenges Luke’s obedience. Her influence forces Luke to question all the lies he was told. Without the supporting presence of Jen, Luke’s transformation would never happen, and is thus, the most important character in the novel, symbolizing friendship and freedom.
Among the Hidden explores a dystopian world as suspense and intrigue persist throughout the book. With motivation and courage from one person, one can fight for what matters most. This story is appropriate ages 10+ since it includes some gun violence and gruesome scenes. The detailed suspense and action make this book a memorable read.

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