The Maze Runner

James Dashner
Started in 2009
5 Books

About the Series

The Maze Runner series follows a group of teenagers who find themselves trapped in a mysterious and deadly maze. With no memory of how they got there, they must work together to unravel the secrets of the maze and escape, all while facing terrifying creatures and the looming threat of a greater conspiracy. The series explores themes of survival, friendship, and the quest for identity in a dystopian world.

Series Details

  • Author:James Dashner
  • Started:2009
  • Books:5
  • Status:Complete

Genres

DystopianScience FictionYoung AdultAdventure

Themes

SurvivalFriendshipIdentityBetrayalConspiracy

Books in Order

1

The Maze Runner

2009

In the first installment, Thomas wakes up in a dark elevator with no memory of who he is or how he got there. He emerges into the Glade, a large expanse surrounded by towering walls, inhabited by other boys who have also lost their memories. Together, they must navigate the maze that surrounds them, filled with deadly creatures known as Grievers, and uncover the truth behind their situation.

Series StartCore Series
2

The Scorch Trials

2010

After escaping the maze, Thomas and his friends discover that their challenges are far from over. They are thrust into a desolate world called the Scorch, where they must face the harsh realities of a sun-scorched landscape and the relentless WICKED organization. As they battle against time and betrayal, they must uncover the truth about the world outside and their roles in it.

Core Series
3

The Death Cure

2011

In the thrilling conclusion to the series, Thomas is faced with the ultimate choice between loyalty and survival. With the fate of his friends and the entire world hanging in the balance, Thomas must confront the truth about WICKED and the experiments that have tormented them. The story culminates in a gripping battle that will change everything.

Core SeriesSeries Finale
4

The Kill Order

2012

This prequel to The Maze Runner delves into the events that led to the creation of the maze and the rise of WICKED. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a virus, the story follows a group of survivors as they navigate through chaos and uncover the origins of the trials. The Kill Order provides essential background to the series and deepens the understanding of the characters' struggles.

Prequel
5

The Fever Code

2016

Another prequel, The Fever Code reveals the backstory of how the maze was built and the motivations behind WICKED's actions. It portrays the lives of the characters before they entered the maze and highlights the choices that led them to become part of the trials. This installment adds depth to the series and answers lingering questions from the main trilogy.

Prequel

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Maze Runner a standalone book or a series?

The Maze Runner is a series consisting of five books, with the original trilogy followed by prequels that expand on the story.

What age group is The Maze Runner intended for?

The Maze Runner is primarily targeted towards young adults, but it has garnered a wide readership across various age groups due to its compelling story and themes.

Are there any film adaptations of The Maze Runner series?

Yes, The Maze Runner series has been adapted into a successful film trilogy, with the first film released in 2014, followed by sequels for The Scorch Trials and The Death Cure.

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