A dystopian society with draconian population control regulations that allow only two children per family is the setting of Margaret Peterson Haddix's book "Among the Hidden" from 1998. The theme of rebellion and resistance are central to the story as the protagonist, Luke, struggles to find a sense of identity and purpose in a world where his very existence is illegal. The concept of "shadow child" refers to a third or subsequent child born into a family, which is illegal under the population control policy implemented by the government. These children must live their entire lives in hiding, never attending school or leaving home, to avoid detection by the government. They are not registered at birth and have no official identities, making them essentially invisible to society. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The existence of shadow children highlights the oppressive nature of the government's population control policy and the harsh reality of living in a society where one's very existence is challenged as a crime. It also serves to highlight the human cost of such policies and the devastating impact they can have on individuals and families. Luke's struggle to come to terms with his identity as a "shadow child" is the first example of rebellion and resistance in the novel. He is forced to live a life of isolation and secrecy, constantly in fear of discovery and punishment. This sense of isolation and oppression leads Luke to question the government's authority and begin to resist the restrictions placed on him. As Luke begins to learn more about the world outside his hidden life, he discovers a group of other "shadow children" who also live in hiding. This group, led by a charismatic figure named Jen, serves as a symbol of resistance and rebellion against the oppressive government. They meet in secret, share information and resources, and even plot to overthrow the government. In the novel, Luke says "I am no longer just Luke. I am Luke, third son. I am one of the hidden ones. And that means something" This quote illustrates his realization and acceptance of being a shadow child and also his desire to be more than a simple hidden child. The shadow children in the novel also serve as a symbol of resistance and rebellion against government control. They are forced to live in secrecy and isolation, but they also have the opportunity to come together and form a community. They share information and resources and even plot to overthrow the government. Over the course of the novel, Luke becomes increasingly involved in this resistance movement and begins to take more active steps to fight government control. He begins to question the morality of the population control policy and becomes more vocal in his opposition. He also begins to take risks, such as moving in public and even joining the underground movement. Ultimately, Luke and his friends succeed in their efforts to overthrow the government and the population control policy is abolished. This victory represents a triumph of the human spirit and a reminder of the power of resistance and rebellion in the face of oppression. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Plus In addition to Luke's personal journey, the novel also explores the larger theme of rebellion and resistance through its depiction of the government's response to the shadow children. The government employs a variety of tactics to maintain control and repress the.