The Maze Runner

James Dashner

About the Author:
James Smith Dashner (born November 26, 1972) is an American writer of speculative fiction, primarily series for children or young adults, such as the Maze Runner series and the young adult fantasy series the 13th Reality. His 2008 novel The Journal of Curious Letters, first in the series, was one of the annual Borders Original Voices picks. James Dashner was born on November 26, 1972 in Austell, Georgia. One of six children, he is a graduate of Duluth High School and Brigham Young University in Utah, where he received a master's degree in accounting. Dashner and his wife Lynette have four children and are now living in Utah. (Wikipedia)

Synopsis:
When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his name. He’s surrounded by strangers—boys whose memories are also gone.   Outside the towering stone walls that surround them is a limitless, ever-changing maze. It’s the only way out—and no one’s ever made it through alive. Then a girl arrives. The first girl ever. And the message she delivers is terrifying: Remember. Survive. Run. (Barnes and Noble)

Discussion Questions:

  • Who were your least and most favorite people in the Glade and why?
  • Why do you think the residents wouldn't answer Thomas' questions when he arrived?
  • As you were reading, what were your ideas about the following: Who were the Creators? What was the Glade? What was the purpose of the maze?
  • What job would you choose if you lived in the Glade and why?
  • Why do you think there was only one girl in the story and why was she the last to arrive?
  • In the epilogue there is a memo from a wicked employee named Ava. She feels there is an obvious leader who has emerged from the Maze Trials. Who would you choose as the leader and why? Ava also mentions Group B. Who do you think they are and do you think they differ from Group A? If so, how?
  • What do you think happened in the Flair? What do you think society looks like after the Flair? Do you think this story is set in the past, present or future and why?

    (Multnomah County Library)