13 books like The Maze Runner

13 books like The Maze Runner

January 27, 2024
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Written by: the NextBook team
Hey there! So, you've stumbled upon the thrilling world of The Maze Runner, huh? Prepare to be sucked into a vortex of mystery, action, and heart-pounding adventure! If you're a fan of dystopian novels with a side of mystery and suspense, then you're in for a wild ride. The Maze Runner, authored by James Dashner, introduces us to a post-apocalyptic world where a group of boys known as The Gladers find themselves trapped in a massive maze. Our fearless protagonist, Thomas, wakes up with no memory and is thrust into this mysterious place filled with deadly creatures and secrets waiting to be uncovered. As the story unfolds, Thomas and his friends must band together, solve the maze's riddles, and fight for their lives to find a way out. Now, you may be wondering, "What makes this book so special?" Let me tell you! Besides the heart-thumping action and mind-bending plot twists, The Maze Runner explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit. It's a gripping story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning page after page until the very end. If you can't get enough of The Maze Runner and are hungry for more dystopian adventures and thrilling tales, fret not! We've got some incredible recommendations lined up for you. Get ready to embark on new journeys and discover captivating worlds that will leave you craving for more. Stay tuned!
The Book Cover Image for The Maze Runner
The Book Cover Image for The Maze Runner
Dystopian
Adventure
Coming of Age

Divergent

In a dystopian society, "Divergent" follows Tris Prior as she discovers her unique identity and challenges the rigid system that divides people based on their traits. With action, romance, and exploration of identity, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey of self-discovery and rebellion.
Author
Veronica Roth
Year Written
2011
Divergent
Dystopian
Adventure
Survival

The Hunger Games

"The Hunger Games" is a dystopian novel set in a future where children from different districts are forced to compete in a televised fight to the death. It follows the story of Katniss Everdeen as she defies the oppressive regime and fights for survival and rebellion.
Author
Suzanne Collins
Year Written
2008
The Hunger Games
Dystopia
Coming of Age
Societal Control

The Giver

"The Giver" is a dystopian novel set in a seemingly perfect society where the absence of pain and emotions is maintained through strict control. When twelve-year-old Jonas is chosen to receive memories of the past from the community's sole Receiver, he starts to question the society's true cost of harmony.
Author
Lois Lowry
Year Written
1993
The Giver
Science Fiction
Dystopian
Young Adult

The 5th Wave

"The 5th Wave" is a thrilling science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world, where humanity is facing waves of deadly attacks. The story follows a young girl named Cassie as she fights for survival and seeks to uncover the truth about the alien invaders.
Author
Rick Yancey
Year Written
2013
The 5th Wave
Dystopian
Young Adult
Thriller

Legend

"Legend" is a dystopian young adult novel set in a future where the United States is divided into two warring factions. It follows the thrilling journey of a prodigious teenage criminal, Day, and a driven young prodigy, June, as their paths intertwine in a quest for truth and justice.
Author
Marie Lu
Year Written
2011
Legend
Science Fiction
Young Adult
Military

Ender's Game

"Ender's Game" is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the story of Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a young boy enlisted in an advanced military school in order to prepare for an impending alien invasion. As Ender navigates intense training, complex interpersonal relationships, and ethical dilemmas, the book explores themes of leadership, morality, and the effects of war on youth.
Author
Orson Scott Card.
Year Written
1985
Ender's Game

The Selection

"The Selection" is a captivating and romantic dystopian novel where a young girl is thrust into a competition to win the heart of a prince. The book delves into themes of love, social class, and the struggle for acceptance, making it an engaging read for fans of romance and dystopian fiction.
Author
Kiera Cass
Year Written
2012
The Selection
Fantasy
Dystopian
Young Adult

Red Queen

"Red Queen" is a captivating fantasy novel set in a dystopian world divided by blood, where the color of your blood determines your social standing and superhuman abilities. The story follows Mare, a young woman who discovers she possesses a unique power that threatens to disrupt the balance of power and ignite a revolution.
Author
Victoria Aveyard
Year Written
2015
Red Queen
Dystopian
Thriller
Adventure

The Scorch Trials

"The Scorch Trials" is a gripping dystopian thriller that follows a group of young survivors as they navigate a treacherous and post-apocalyptic landscape. Faced with deadly challenges and mysterious trials, they must uncover the truth about their world and fight for their survival.
Author
James Dashner
Year Written
2010
The Scorch Trials
Dystopian
Coming of Age
Science Fiction

The Knife of Never Letting Go

"The Knife of Never Letting Go" is a gripping dystopian novel that follows Todd Hewitt, the last boy in a town where everyone can hear each other's thoughts. When he discovers a patch of silence and a mysterious girl, Viola, Todd embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth about his world and protect Viola from those who seek to control her.
Author
Patrick Ness
Year Written
2008
The Knife of Never Letting Go
Dystopian
Romance
Rebellion

Matched

"Matched" is a captivating dystopian novel where society controls every aspect of its citizens' lives, including who they marry. The protagonist, Cassia, is thrown into a whirlwind of rebellion and self-discovery when she falls in love with someone other than her pre-determined match.
Author
Ally Condie
Year Written
2010
Matched
Dystopian
Young Adult
Romance

Delirium

"Delirium" is a dystopian novel set in a world where love is considered a disease and is eradicated through a procedure. The story follows Lena, a young girl who discovers the power of love and questions the oppressive society she lives in.
Author
Lauren Oliver
Year Written
2011
Delirium
Dystopian
Survival
Young Adult

Enclave

Enclave is a gripping dystopian novel that follows the story of a young girl named Deuce, living in a harsh underground society known as the Enclave. As she is assigned a dangerous role as a Huntress and ventures to the treacherous surface, Deuce discovers a world filled with dangers and revelations that challenge everything she thought she knew.
Author
Ann Aguirre
Year Written
2011
Enclave

FAQ

Overview

In the heart-pounding dystopian novel, The Maze Runner, author James Dashner thrusts readers into a post-apocalyptic world. It revolves around a group of boys known as The Gladers, who find themselves trapped within the confines of a massive, ever-changing maze. The story centers around Thomas, who wakes up in the maze with no memories of his past. As he navigates this treacherous labyrinth, the Gladers must decipher clues, avoid deadly creatures, and ultimately find a way to escape. The gripping narrative is filled with relentless action, suspense, and unexpected plot twists that will constantly keep readers guessing. Dashner's skillful storytelling is not limited to heart-pounding chases and narrow escapes. The Maze Runner also delves into themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the human spirit's indomitable nature. As the Gladers face numerous challenges, their bonds are tested, with trust and loyalty taking center stage. This gripping novel sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure and leaves readers eagerly reaching for the next book in the series, eager to solve the mysteries of the maze alongside Thomas and his companions.

Length of Read

The average reader, reading at a speed of 300 WPM, would take 5 hours and 34 minutes to read The Maze Runner by James Dashner.

Main Characters

Alright, let's meet the gang from The Maze Runner: - Thomas: Our brave and curious hero who shakes things up in the Glade, challenging the status quo and unraveling the mysteries of the maze. - Teresa: The only girl in the Glade, Teresa's arrival sparks a series of revelations and tests the bonds of trust among the Gladers, adding an intriguing dynamic to the story. - Newt: The level-headed and reliable second-in-command, Newt brings a sense of stability and wisdom to the group, becoming a pillar of strength. - Minho: The fast and fearless maze runner, Minho's athletic skills and determination are crucial in navigating the treacherous labyrinth. - Alby: The initial leader of the Gladers, Alby's authority and dedication set the tone for their survival and the fight against the maze's challenges. Each character has their own unique traits and contributions to the story. From Thomas's inquisitiveness and courage to Teresa's mysterious connection to the maze, their distinct personalities drive the plot forward and keep us hooked on the edge of our seats. So get ready to root for this eclectic group of survivors as they navigate the maze and unravel the secrets of their world!

Ending & Meaning

Alright, let's talk about the ending of The Maze Runner! Spoiler alert, my friend! After all the trials, sacrifices, and heart-stopping moments, Thomas and his fellow Gladers finally escape the treacherous maze. But hold on tight, because their journey is far from over. They discover that the outside world is a complete mess, ravaged by a nasty virus called the Flare. Determined to find a cure and save humanity, Thomas and his friends join forces with a rebel group known as the Right Arm. Now, here's the juicy part. The ending of The Maze Runner not only ties up the thrilling maze escapades but also opens up a whole new can of worms. It makes you ponder the lengths people will go to fight for survival and the moral dilemmas that arise in desperate times. Themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the unbreakable human spirit shine through as the characters navigate their post-apocalyptic reality. In a way, the ending of The Maze Runner reminds us that even in the darkest of times, hope can be found. It shows us that when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we have the capacity to band together, fight for what's right, and never give up. It's a powerful message that lingers long after you close the book, leaving you craving for more thrilling adventures.
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