Among the Enemy
#6 in The Shadow Children Series
on Goodreads (20,165)
What’s inside...
In a society that allows families to have only two children, third child Matthias has been captured by the Population Police. It's up to his friends to rescue him as he navigates life within the Population Police headquarters, encounters another illegal third-born, Nina, and becomes involved in a plot to undermine the Population Police. Amidst mourning the loss of his friends and constant scrutiny, Matthias must find a way to fight against the growing evil of the Population Police while grappling with questions of trust and loyalty.
Character compass
Matthias
Nina
Alia
Percy
Aldous Krakenaeur
Tidd
Discussion points
How did the characters' choices impact the story’s outcome?
What would you do if you were in the protagonist's position?
How do you think the society in the book differs from ours?
What did you learn about bravery and ethics from the characters?
How do you feel about the way the story ended? Would you change it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Relate the book’s societal issues to current events to make the discussion relevant and engaging.
Discuss the moral dilemmas faced by characters to explore your child’s understanding of right and wrong.
Ask your child how they might feel in the same situations to enhance empathy and emotional insight.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings to the story, enhancing their creative thinking.
Recognize and validate your child’s feelings about the story to promote a safe space for expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Among the Enemy', characters are often faced with decisions that impact others. The protagonist, Matthias, learns to understand and empathize with individuals from different backgrounds and ideologies.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to better understand peers who come from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and acceptance in their daily interactions at school and in the community.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Courage and Integrity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Matthias demonstrates courage and maintains his moral integrity even in difficult situations. His actions mirror the idea that doing what is right, despite fear and risk, is crucial.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the value of standing up for what they believe in and making brave choices, whether it’s in standing up to bullies or speaking out about what’s fair.
Example Lesson: The Impact of Choices
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes how individual choices can lead to significant consequences. Matthias' decisions affect not only his fate but also the lives of others around him.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to consider the outcomes of their decisions and encourages them to think about how their actions might affect others, fostering a sense of responsibility.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Matthias faces numerous challenges and adversities but remains resilient and determined to navigate through them. This resilience is a central theme that drives the narrative forward.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of not giving up when facing personal hardships or challenges in school or their social lives, helping them develop persistence.