1. Introduction to the Children: The novel introduces us to a near-future world where the government enforces strict population control measures. We meet Petra and Connor, two children born after the government's two-child policy.
2. Discovery of the Child-Catcher: Petra and Connor discover a child-catcher, a government agent tasked with taking away unregistered children. They narrowly escape capture with the help of their parents.
3. The Raid: The child-catchers launch a raid on Petra and Connor's neighborhood. Their parents are taken, and the siblings and their friend Trey must flee to avoid being captured.
4. The Journey Begins: Petra and Connor embark on a journey with Trey to search for their parents. They travel across dangerous landscapes and face numerous obstacles, such as checkpoints and government surveillance.
5. Encountering Others on the Run: Along their journey, Petra, Connor, and Trey meet other children who are also running from the government. They form alliances with some of these children, strengthening their group and increasing their chances of survival.
6. Discovery of the Group: Petra, Connor, and their friends eventually discover a group of people working against the government's population control policies. They learn that the government is experimenting on unwanted children and using propaganda to justify its oppressive measures.
7. Growing Resistance: As the novel progresses, Petra and her allies become more involved in the resistance. They conduct operations to sabotage the government's efforts, rescue captured children, and uncover the truth behind the population control policies.
These events create increasing tension, stakes, and conflict, leading up to the main climax of the story when Petra, Connor, and the resistance face a critical challenge or confrontation.