The Maze Runner is a 2009 dystopian novel by American author James Dashner, set in a postapocalyptic world ravaged by disease. The story centers on Thomas, a 16-year-old boy who finds himself within a vast maze with no recollection of his past, except for his name. The novel is a thrilling exploration of survival, memory, and the quest for freedom.
Upon arrival in the Glade, Thomas discovers a society of boys who have also lost their memories and are attempting to escape the ever-changing maze that surrounds them. Every month, a new boy arrives in the Glade, and supplies are sent up weekly. However, the dynamics change drastically with the arrival of Teresa, the first girl ever to come to the Glade, bearing a chilling message that hints at a deeper connection between her and Thomas, and suggests a terrifying purpose behind their entrapment.
The Gladers, led by Alby and his second-in-command, Newt, enforce strict rules to survive, while Runners, led by Minho, explore the maze, looking for a way out while evading deadly biomechanical creatures known as Grievers. Thomas's arrival sparks a series of events that encompass hope, betrayal, and revelations, leading to a daring escape attempt. His unique perspective and newly discovered abilities place him at the center of the Gladers' fight for survival and the key to unraveling the mysteries of the maze.
The Maze Runner received critical acclaim for its gripping plot and complex character development. It has won several awards, including the 2011 Best Fiction for Young Adults from the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). The novel's popularity led to its adaptation into a major motion picture in 2014, directed by Wes Ball and starring Dylan O’Brien as Thomas. It also inspired a five-book series, plus prequels and spin-offs.
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About the author
James Dashner
James Dashner is an acclaimed American author of speculative fiction. His notable works include The Maze Runner series and The 13th Reality series.
Born on November 26, 1972, in Austell, Georgia, Dashner began crafting stories on his parents' typewriter at the age of 10. His writing career took off in 2003 with the publication of his first novel, A Door in the Woods, which is part of The Jimmy Fincher Saga. This was followed by several more books across different series, including The 13th Reality series, which began with The Journal of Curious Letters in 2008, garnering critical acclaim and awards such as the Whitney Award for Best Youth Fiction in 2008. However, it was The Maze Runner series that catapulted Dashner into global fame. The debut novel was a #1 New York Times bestseller, won the ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults award, and was named Best Teen Book of the Year by Kirkus Reviews. The series, which includes five novels plus prequels and spin-offs, not not only achieved significant commercial success but also led to the production of a film series by 20th Century Fox, grossing an estimated $949 million worldwide and ranking as the fourth-highest-grossing film series based on young-adult books.
In 2021, Dasher released the adult horror novel, The House of Tongues. He lives in Utah with his wife and has four children.
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