Kate's Reviews > The Maze Runner

Summary:
If you ain’t scared, you ain’t human.
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.
Nice to meet ya, shank. Welcome to the Glade.
Outside the towering stone walls that surround the Glade is a limitless, ever-changing maze. It’s the only way out—and no one’s ever made it through alive.
Everything is going to change.
Then a girl arrives. The first girl ever. And the message she delivers is terrifying.
Remember. Survive. Run.
Plot:
Okay, wow. This plot was so amazingly awesome and incredible and is beyond words. I had actually seen the movie first, but was pleasantly surprised by how much better and different the book was--which Is saying something because I love the movie. I was drawn in by the first page. Most people said the first half was boring, but I would say the opposite. It was interesting and exciting, but I felt a little unplugged from the story. That was entirely on my behalf, though.
Writing:
James Dashner's writing wasn't the highest quality out there, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it. He's now one of my favorite authors after I read this book. For some reason, I feel like his writing matches the story. I can't explain, but it just feels right.
Characters:
I received an interesting batch of characters with this book. Every single one of them was clearly different. Some of them annoyed me, but others made me laugh and grin. I happened to notice lots of character difference from the movie and the book. For instance, Alby is WAY more annoying in the book, and Thomas and Teresa are much more awe-inspiring. I found their connection to be a great puzzle piece in this book.
Overall:
I finally joined the Maze Runner Fandom! Boy am I glad I did. It has a gripping plot with compelling characters. James Dashner succeeds with making a great story.
Recommendations:
Probably mature 12+. I found it not to have near as much violence as the movie or The Kill Order book. The violence would bother most 12 year olds, though. It just so happens that violence doesn't bother me.