The Maze Runner
#1 of 5 in The Maze Runner Series
on Goodreads (1,611)
What’s inside...
The story follows a boy named Thomas who wakes up in a mysterious place called the Glade with no memories other than his own name. He and other boys in the Glade must navigate a deadly maze, facing horrifying creatures and other dangers, in order to find their way out. As they try to solve the maze, a girl arrives with a message that changes everything and Thomas begins to feel that he may hold the key if he can unlock the secrets within his own mind.
Discussion points
How do you think you would react if you were in Thomas's shoes, arriving in The Glade with no memory of your past?
What does the concept of teamwork in the book teach us about facing challenges in our own lives?
Which character did you feel the most connected to and why?
How do you think the maze represents real-life obstacles, and what strategies can we use to overcome them?
What did you learn about the importance of leadership and decision-making from the characters in 'The Maze Runner'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare and contrast their experiences with the characters' struggles to facilitate personal connections.
Discuss the importance of camaraderie and working together towards a common goal, drawing parallels to family or school projects.
Foster empathy by asking how they feel about the characters' decisions and the outcomes of those choices.
Guide them to interpret the symbolism of the maze and relate it to overcoming challenges in their daily lives.
Highlight the decision-making process of the characters and discuss the value of thoughtful leadership in difficult situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'The Maze Runner', the protagonist Thomas shows immense perseverance as he navigates the challenges of the maze despite numerous obstacles and dangers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not giving up when facing their own challenges, whether in school or in personal situations.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters must work together to survive and solve the maze, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value cooperation and collaboration, skills that are essential in classroom projects and team sports.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: The maze requires creative problem-solving and critical thinking, as the characters often face complex challenges that need thoughtful solutions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these critical thinking skills to academic challenges and personal problems, improving their ability to navigate complex situations.
Example Lesson: Courage in uncertain situations
Explanation: Thomas consistently exhibits courage as he faces the unknown elements of the maze, inspiring others around him.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of facing fears and uncertainties in their own lives, whether trying new activities or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Leadership and responsibility
Explanation: Thomas emerges as a leader who takes responsibility for the group’s welfare, making tough decisions for the greater good.
Real-World Application: This highlights the importance of leadership qualities in children, encouraging them to take initiative and lead in group settings responsibly.