The Maze Runner

by James Dashner

Summary: When Thomas wakes up in the Glade, the only thing he can remember is his name. He's surrounded by other guys his age, who certainly aren't making his transition to a strange new world any easier. He's clearly the new guy, and the rules the Gladers have created for themselves don't make any sense at first: don't leave the maze, never get caught in the maze after dark, and don't ask questions. Until one night, through a tiny window in the maze, he sees what everyone is afraid of--a terrifying creature called a Griever. The Grievers come out at night, and kill everyone in their paths. The Gladers have made a life for themselves, and have become accustomed to their routines. They have jobs, and friends, and a crude form of government. A group called the Runners explores the maze by day to try to find a way to escape. Their routine hasn't been altered in years. But the day after Thomas arrives, everything changes...

My thoughts: The Maze Runner is a sort of sci-fi Lord of the Flies. I love the way the characters interact with each other. It's exactly how I imagine teenaged guys would treat each other in this situation. The suspense/mystery element is really well done. I truly couldn't put this book down, and when I had to, I was thinking about when I could pick it back up. Hunger Games fans, give The Maze Runner a try!