The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

The Scorch Trials is a very well written book that will keeps you on the edge of your seat. I never knew what was going to happen next; partially because anything is possible in the future, and partly because Mr. Dashner is such a creative writer. This book made me upset that I could not read faster, finish it and receive all the answers. Then I found myself scared and feeling bad for Thomas (kind of weird). This book is a post-apocalyptic story that takes place in the center of what could possibly be the final end to the world. Also, The Scorch trials is the second book in the Maze Runner series. I highly suggest reading the first book before the first.

The world is coming to and end. More than half of the population has been infected with it. The Flare. A terrible disease that slowly turns you insane. Finding a cure is WICKED's goal. (WICKED: The program putting Thomas through these tests.)
Once again Thomas has been set up, blackmailed. He has two options. One: beat the Scorch Trials and receive the cure for the Flare that has been implanted in him. Two: die in a manner pleasing to WICKED. Now Thomas and his colleagues have to pass WICKED's test and complete the nearly impossible task of crossing the Scorch desert. Oh, full of Cranks; Insane killers infected with the Flare, and other variables designed to kill.

This book brings together opposites; Romance and Killing/Action, and does a very good job of doing so. Also, this book teaches a good lesson. First of all, lying hurts. All WICKED has done to the Gladers (Thomas and his friends) is kill them, hurt them and lie to them. As a result, all remaining Gladers have suffered loads and been tortured mentally and physically.

In addition to the consequences of lying, this book teaches the value of hard work and the determination to never give up. Life happens. Just like the characters in the book work hard and conquer one trial, just to find another one resting on the doorstep. Life is full of up and downs. However, just like the Gladers, we must face each one of those challenges knowing we will finish and end up on top.

I did enjoy this book, even though I had a hard time getting through the beginning of the book.(It tends to drag) Mr Dashner did an excellent job of keeping me intrigued farther into the book as well as frustrating me; I just wanted everything to be perfect and Thomas to live happily ever after. However, all my questions were not answered. Like a good writer would, he leaves you wanting more in the next book: The Death Cure. This book was an overall good book, I would give it an A-.