Since it had been a number of years since reading the book, I thought it would be best if I revisited the story. I needed to be reminded that Thomas randomly appeared in the maze. That the maze was an isolated home to dozens of boys, all who appeared just as Thomas did. The initial view seems peaceful, content, and organized. However, on further inspection, Thomas discovers that the maze is a nightmare, one the boys cannot escape and becomes downright terrifying at night when the Grievers appear. Thomas didn't think it could get worse, but it does ... when a girl arrives with a message and everything begins to escalate.
The Maze Runner was still an enjoyable read the second time around. I discovered that I needed a reminder of Thomas and the maze. I remembered the basic plot, but some of the details were needed for the rest of the series. In the end, a good start to the beginning of the trilogy.
The maze is gone, but Thomas and company have to face an all new challenge. A challenge that may be more difficult than the maze, and leaves characters and readers alike wondering who to trust.
I liked that I learned more about the history of the maze. I liked the new characters introduced, both the good and the bad. I did not like that I was left with even more questions than I started with.
The finale to the trilogy brings a completely different dimension to the world than Thomas is living in. I enjoyed these new challenges, finally getting a peek into the outside world that keeps being only referred to in the previous novels. And, Thomas finally gets his own answers and maybe some resolution.
Overall, I was satisfied with the series. It did get progressively more violent, which took me a bit by surprise (and I'm not sure why). And, the ending left me with very mixed feelings. BUT, it was good character development and world-building.
The Maze Runner movie is now out on DVD, and I had the opportunity the other day to watch it. It did not follow the books as much as I had hoped. The movie really took advantage of the scariness of the book, but it also took out key aspects that I'm hoping will be addressed in the sequels to come. My final conclusion: It was good. The book was better.
Have you read The Maze Runner trilogy? Have you seen the movie? What did you think about the progression of the series and the way it ended?
I really enjoyed the first two but after that I felt they started losing something. I loved the movie! And probably saw it far enough away from reading it that I didn't remember what was different from the book. Except for the Thomas/Theresa connection bit! :)
ReplyDeleteSuey ... I can totally see where you are coming from on the series. If I had to choose, I would say that the first one was the strongest in the series. And, I still don't know what I think of that ending! I liked the movie too, but am curious how they are going to address the missing details. They become quite important in the next book!
DeleteI really need to read this entire trilogy. My son finished book 1 for the Battle of the Books, and he liked it. I should read that so we can read the second book together!
ReplyDeleteBelle Wong ... That would be fun, and it could be a fun one to discuss together!
DeleteI have The Maze Runner but have yet to set aside time to read it. I've become more intrigued since the film came out for sure.
ReplyDeleteBecca Lostinbooks ... The nice thing is that you wouldn't have to wait to read the entire series at this point either. They are all out and you can read them back to back. Definitely recommended for this trilogy!
DeleteTif, I purchased this series (4 books, though, in paperback) due to the extremely high recommendation of the Nerdy Book Club. I'm trying to get through library books first, then friends' books, THEN I hope to get to this!
ReplyDeletewritersideup.com ... The fourth book I believe was written after the completion of the trilogy and is more of a prequel. I haven't read that one yet, but I probably should. Let me know when you get to it though. I'm curious to hear what you think.
DeleteI read and enjoyed the first book, but guess I didn't like it enough to pick up the rest of the series. Now I'm curious and want to read them all! Think I'll check and see if my library has books 2 & 3, and dig up my copy of The Maze Runner. Thanks for the great recap!
ReplyDeleteAlexia561 ... I did something similar, but didn't return because there was a lag of the second book being released. I'm glad I returned to them though, especially before seeing the movies!
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