The Maze Runner
Delacorte Books for Young Readers 2009
Book 1 of The Maze Runner
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.3 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- memory and identity
- survival
- teamwork and leadership
- trust and loyalty
- courage under pressure
- mystery and problem-solving
- free will vs. control
- hope against odds
About this book
Sixteen-year-old Thomas wakes up with no memory inside a walled glade at the heart of a gigantic, ever-changing maze. To survive, he must join a tightly run group of teens, follow strict rules, and help solve the maze before deadly creatures strike at night. Fast-paced action, mysteries to unravel, and high-stakes teamwork keep readers turning pages. Perfect for fans of dystopian adventures who like puzzle-filled plots and edge-of-your-seat suspense.
Setting: a fortified glade and a massive, shifting maze in a dystopian future
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Maze Runner right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Maze Runner. The reading level is AR 5.3, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include memory and identity, survival, teamwork and leadership.
How long does it take to read The Maze Runner?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Maze Runner takes around 10h to finish. The book has 101,182 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Maze Runner have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Maze Runner has an AR quiz available, worth 15 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is The Maze Runner?
The Maze Runner has an AR reading level of 5.3, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.