"Maybe everyone is just waiting for someone else to save them."
In a country with strict population control, third-born children were deemed illegal. Third-born children, also referred to as 'shadow children', are blamed for the lack of resources, especially food. Luke Garner was born as the third child of the family, but his family kept him hidden on the farm. He was to act as if he did not exist, which was true in law. Then Luke met Jen, an ambitious girl who wanted to end this illegal business with the shadow children. As the story progresses further into the series, Luke's transitions are noticeable. He went from a follower to a leader. Through multiple books, the readers are able to experience the story in different perspectives of each character, as well as their individual stories. The conflicts are vivid, cliffhangers prevent the readers from putting down the book, and each characterization is unique. Overall, it will keep the readers interested for a long period of time.
Accelerated Reader Book Level: 4.8~5.6