The Maze Runner

Name: The Maze Runner
ISBN: 9781613832288

by James Dashner

Thomas wakes up in a mysterious Glade, surrounded by other boys and an enormous, shifting maze filled with lethal creatures. With no memory of his past, he must join forces with the Gladers to solve t

About This Book

The Maze Runner introduces readers to Thomas, a 16-year-old who awakens in a mysterious Glade with amnesia, surrounded by other boys and an impenetrable, ever-changing maze. This dystopian novel explores themes of survival, teamwork, and the ethics of human experimentation as the Gladers battle terrifying biomechanical creatures called Grievers and try to escape. It's a fast-paced, suspenseful read that has garnered critical acclaim and is a popular choice for middle-grade classrooms, known for engaging reluctant readers with its high stakes and intricate mystery. Parents should be aware of significant peril, violence, and character deaths.

Sixteen-year-old Thomas wakes up with no memory in the middle of a maze and realizes he must work with the community in which he finds himself if he is to escape.

Heads up, parents

peril_danger

Scary Scenes

Character Death

Violence

abandonment

mental_health_themes

Discussion Prompts

How do the Gladers establish rules and a society in their isolated community? What are the strengths and weaknesses of their system?

What ethical questions does WICKED's experiment raise? Do you think their goals justify their methods?

How do different characters, like Thomas, Newt, and Minho, cope with fear and uncertainty in the Maze?

The characters lose their memories upon entering the Glade. How does memory, or the lack thereof, affect their identities and decisions?

Discuss the concept of sacrifice in the book, particularly Chuck's actions. What does it mean to sacrifice for others?

What do you think makes Thomas a good leader or a good Runner?

External Reviews