Margaret Peterson Haddix's dystopian novel "Among the Hidden" is set in a future society where the government maintains strict control of the population by limiting families to just two children. Those who break this rule, like the protagonist Luca, are forced to live in hiding to avoid being discovered and taken away. This oppressive government policy creates a bleak and hopeless world for those affected by it, and for Luke, it means living a life of isolation and fear. The novel explores themes of hope and change as Luke and other "shadow children" struggle to survive in this dystopian world and ultimately fight to change it. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay However, when he begins to connect with other "shadow children" like himself and learns about the underground resistance movement, he begins to see the possibility of change and hope for a better future. A key example of this is when Luke first meets Jen, another third child like him. Jen tells Luke, "We can make a difference. We must make a difference" (Chapter 7). This statement represents a turning point for Luke, as it gives him a sense of purpose and the belief that change is possible. The theme of hope is further strengthened by Luke's growing relationship with Jen, another third daughter. Jen is a symbol of hope as she actively fights for change and believes in the possibility of a better future. He encourages Luke to join the resistance movement, and he eventually does. The resistance is a group of Third Sons and their supporters who are working to change the government's population control policies. When Luke first joins, he is hesitant and unsure of himself, but as he becomes more involved, he begins to see the real impact the resistance is having. As he says, “It was hard to believe that a small group of people could make a difference in something as large as government population control laws” (Chapter 13). However, as the novel progresses, it becomes clear that resistance is having a real impact and that change is possible. The novel also explores the idea that change can be difficult and requires sacrifice. Luke, Jen and other members of the resistance are putting their lives at risk to fight for change and must make difficult choices to make it happen. As Luke reflects, “Change was difficult and dangerous” (Chapter 15) Keep in mind: this is just one example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In the end, Luke and Jen, along with the other shadow children manage to make a change in society and the government's population control policy is abolished. The overall theme of the novel is that, even in the darkest moments, hope and change are possible if people come together and fight for what is right. Thanks to the characters' actions and their determination to make a difference, the novel encourages readers to believe in the power of hope and change and to work for a better future.