The Scorch Trials
#2 of 5 in The Maze Runner Series
on Goodreads (616,951)
What’s inside...
After surviving horrific conditions in the Maze, Thomas is entrapped, along with nineteen other boys, in a scientific experiment designed to observe their responses and gather data believed to be essential for the survival of the human race. This is the second book in the Maze Runner series, which has become a blockbuster movie franchise and a worldwide phenomenon. Solving the Maze was supposed to be the end. Thomas was sure that escape from the Maze would mean freedom for him and the Gladers. But WICKED isn’t done yet. Phase Two has just begun. The Scorch. There are no rules. There is no help. You either make it or you die. The Gladers have two weeks to cross through the Scorch—the most burned-out section of the world. And WICKED has made sure to adjust the variables and stack the odds against them. Friendships will be tested. Loyalties will be broken. All bets are off. There are others now. Their survival depends on the Gladers’ destruction—and they’re determined to survive.
Character compass
Thomas
Sonya
Harriet
Newt
Minho
Brenda
Jorge
Aris
Janson
Teresa
Aris Jones
Teresa Agnes
Discussion points
What do you think about the choices Thomas and his friends have to make? How would you decide in those situations?
How do the characters show courage and teamwork in the face of the challenges they encounter?
The Gladers face many unknowns. What do you think this tells us about how to deal with uncertainty in our own lives?
What are the different ways the characters respond to fear and how does this affect their relationships with each other?
If you could ask the author one question about 'The Scorch Trials,' what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in the shoes of different characters.
Facilitate a discussion on the moral dilemmas in the book to understand your child's reasoning and values.
Discuss the concept of leadership and ask your child what they think makes a good leader, based on the characters' actions.
Identify moments of personal growth in the characters and discuss them in the context of your child’s own experiences.
Spark creativity by asking your child to imagine alternative scenarios and outcomes for the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'The Scorch Trials', the protagonist, Thomas, demonstrates resilience as he navigates through dangerous challenges. Despite numerous setbacks, he remains determined and adaptable.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay resilient during difficult times such as tests, sports competitions, or even interpersonal challenges at school.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Thomas and his friends, known as Gladers, often rely on teamwork to overcome obstacles and solve complex problems.
Real-World Application: This emphasizes to children the value of working cooperatively in group projects or during team sports.
Example Lesson: Questioning and critical thinking
Explanation: Thomas consistently questions the world around him and the information provided to him, which is a key driver of the plot and helps him navigate the maze.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to ask questions and think critically about information they receive, whether in academic settings or in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: The characters are frequently faced with tough decisions that test their morals, particularly when deciding who to trust and the best ways to protect one another.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the complexity of ethical decisions and the importance of considering the impact of their actions on others.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: As circumstances change rapidly within the story, Thomas and his group need to constantly adapt their strategies.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being flexible and adapting to new environments or changes, such as moving to a new school or dealing with changes within the family.