Among the Free
Simon & Schuster, Incorporated 2008
Shadow Children
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- freedom vs. oppression
- courage
- resistance and rebellion
- identity and choice
- truth and propaganda
- justice and responsibility
- hope
- moral dilemmas
About this book
In the final Shadow Children novel, Luke Garner—once a forbidden third child—finds himself swept into a nation on the brink of change. As the ruthless Population Police begin to lose their grip, Luke must decide whom to trust and whether to risk everything to make his voice heard. The story races through tense confrontations and tough choices as Luke searches for real freedom and truth. Fast-paced and thought-provoking, it’s perfect for readers who like dystopian adventures with heart and high stakes.
Setting: a near-future authoritarian country ruled by the Population Police; farms, remote villages, and the capital city
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Among the Free right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Among the Free. The reading level is AR 5, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include freedom vs. oppression, courage, resistance and rebellion.
How long does it take to read Among the Free?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Among the Free takes around 5.0h to finish. The book has 50,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Among the Free have an AR quiz?
Yes — Among the Free has an AR quiz available, worth 7 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Among the Free?
Among the Free has an AR reading level of 5, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.