Shannon O’Connor, children’s book buyer at the Doylestown Bookshop in Doylestown, Pa., talks about a favorite fall galley.
In James Dashner’s The Maze Runner (Delacorte, Oct.), Thomas wakes up in a strange place, surrounded by strange boys—and the only thing he can remember is his name. Where has he been taken? To the center of a giant maze that is guarded by Grievers, creatures born of your darkest nightmares. The maze is inhabited by Gladers, other boys who don’t take too kindly to newcomers like Thomas. Now Thomas must learn how to survive within the political structure of the maze while working as hard as he can to find a way out alive.
This is a thrilling adventure story that will please fans of fantasy and science fiction alike—and they will be left wanting more after its cliffhanger ending. The Maze Runner is perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and Lord of the Flies. Dashner’s Grievers are some of the most terrifying fictional monsters I’ve encountered in my many years of reading. There were times when I could barely turn the page from fear! Thankfully, this novel begins a planned trilogy, so readers will have plenty to look forward to in the future. The Maze Runner is packed full of twists and turns that will keep reluctant readers interested, but these puzzles will also appeal to more sophisticated readers who will enjoy trying to solve them. This book will be snatched up by teen boys, and is more than spooky enough for store Halloween displays.
