Overpopulation

Margaret Peterson Haddix touches on both social and environmental themes in Among the Hidden. By creating a make-believe future in which America has become a totalitarian state, the author provides a means for exploring the potential consequences of overpopulation. This imaginedfuture provides a marvelous way to introduce discussion of such socio-environmental issues as overpopulation and population control, particularly in a democracy like The United States of America. It is an excellent way to engage 10- to 14-year-olds in a dialogue about the responsibilities that come along with the freedoms provided by the Constitution. In the book, the Population Law curtails the basic human rights of children like Luke. Since the issue of overpopulation occurred long before Luke was born, Luke must study history to try to figure out why the Population Law was passed.

Jen provides him with literature from the groups who support and the groups who...