The Maze (374 Pages)

I'm sure I'm the last person to read book one of this James Dashner series....and I must say, it's a little weird. Thomas finds himself in a large, black box being mechanically raised. He is frightened because he can't remember how he got in the box. As a matter of fact, he can't remember anything except his name. When the box stops moving, he finds himself in a peculiar compound inhabited only by boys. He soon is introduced to several of these boys including Alby (the leader of the group), Newt (Alby's second in command),  and several other boys. He discovers that there are specific rules of behavior here, and the boys are known as Gladers. Thomas has a feeling he has been here before, and that he needs to be a Runner. Runners go into the maze every day, trying to find a way out. The walls of the compound move electronically every night,  and it is important for the runners to be back inside the compound before the walls are sealed shut for the night.  If they aren't back in time, they risk being killed by the Grievers. These are mechanical monsters that are programmed to kill the boys. The story continues with Thomas finding out more and more about the mystery of the maze. It is an exciting, fast moving plot that readers will find difficult to put down.