The Maze Runner
The Scorch Trials
2015
Book 1 of The Maze Runner
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- survival
- trust and betrayal
- memory and identity
- friendship and loyalty
- courage
- teamwork
- government control
- resilience
About this book
In this high-stakes sequel to The Maze Runner, Thomas and the Gladers face a brutal new trial across a burning wasteland known as the Scorch. With dangers around every corner and little information about who to trust, the group must work together to survive and find answers. Fast-paced action, constant twists, and a gripping sense of mystery keep readers turning pages. A great pick for middle school and early high school fans of dystopian adventures and cliffhangers.
Setting: a post-apocalyptic desert wasteland and ruined cities
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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, 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 survival, trust and betrayal, memory and identity.
How long does it take to read The Maze Runner?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Maze Runner takes around 11h to finish. The book has 113,724 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 16 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, 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.