Shadow Children Series # 7: Among the Free

Among the Free is the final book, number 7, of the Shadow Children Series by Margaret Peterson Haddix. This story takes readers on many twists and turns as the story takes on new paths after many surprises.  If you enjoyed any of the Shadow Children Books, this is a must read.  It finally brings the story of Luke to a close and readers can see how much Luke has changed over the course of the year from when he first came out of hiding until now.  The story makes readers question population concerns and laws.  Why did the population police make the two-child policy initially? How did the people of that society respond? Is a population law necessary? How can a country ensure it's people have enough food? These are all questions up for debate, and my students held a heated debate after beginning the Shadow Children Series with Among the Hidden.  I would highly recommend this series to other educators, as many of my students continued reading the series with me and we had great discussions about what we were reading on our own. I am looking forward to reading her next series: Missing.

Shadow Children Series: Among the Enemy # 6

Among the Enemy is the sixth book in the Shadow Children Series written by Margaret Peterson Haddix.  Among the Enemy starts with the story of yet another third child, Matthias, and his close friends Percy and Alia.  The three friends believe they are finally safe at Niedler School, when the Population Police arrives and changes everything.  They are forced to think quickly on their feet if they want to avoid going to the work camp, where they will likely die.  Matthias makes a life-threatening decision to escape and is faced with many challenges thereafter.  Will they survive out in the wilderness where the Population Police is hiding everywhere, just waiting for them to walk by?  Will they find allies to help their cause? Where will they find food and shelter? Some of the third children have decided to join the Population Police and fight for their cause from the inside out.  Will that work?  Should Matthias try this to save his friends and himself? What would you do?

Shadow Children Series: Among the Brave # 5

Among the Brave is the fifth book in the Shadow Children Series by Margaret Peterson Haddix. This book follows the story of another third child, Trey.  Trey is separated from the rest of his friends and must survive alone out in a world ruled by the Population Police.  He encounters many challenges along the way that test his courage and bravery.  He also teams up with Luke's brother, Mark, for part of his journey.  Both boys face death and must strategize to save themselves and their friends before the Population Police takes action. Mr. Hendrick's becomes an ever-important ally and mentor once again, as do Mr. & Mrs. Talbot.  Together this team of rebels makes decisions to stand up for third children and save as many as they can.  Will they be successful? You'll have to read to find out! This story is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Shadow Children Series: Among the Barons # 4

Among the Barons is the fourth book in the Shadow Children Series written by Margaret Peterson Haddix. This book throws readers for a loop when someone comes to visit Luke, "Lee," at Hendricks School for Boys. This individual is a Baron and demands extensive catering from the school officials.  Luke must learn to deal with this new student, who happens to be someone closer to him than you may realize. After drastic events take place, Luke is forced to leave school and live among other Barons in a mansion that has everything.  They throw a twist in and Luke must think fast. You'll have to read the book to find out where Luke has to go and what he experiences while he's there. You won't believe what happens!

Shadow Children Series: Among the Betrayed # 3

Among the Betrayed is the third book in the Shadow Children Series written by Margaret Peterson Haddix. Luke's role in this book is minimal as we instead hear the story of Nina, a character introduced to us in Among the Impostors.  Nina finds herself imprisoned by the Population Police, and she is faced with a challenge that will require her to make a decision between betraying other third children to save her own life or put her own life in jeopardy. What will Nina decide? Will she stay loyal to other third children, put herself first, or come up with a completely different plan? Nina has been betrayed before, does she remember what that feels like? Luke makes an appearance at the end of the story, that is exciting yet cliff hanging!

I have really enjoyed reading this series and find myself picking up the books whenever I have a free moment.  The books are page turners and therefore are really fast reads!