How Many Books Are in the Maze Runner Series?

The Maze Runner series is a thrilling young adult (YA) dystopian saga written by James Dashner. Known for its fast-paced action, complex characters, and intricate storyline filled with mystery, it has captured the attention of readers worldwide. But if you're new to the series, you might be wondering how many books are in the Maze Runner series. Let’s break it down now!

How many books are in the Maze Runner series?

First, how many books are in the Maze Runner series officially? There are five books in The Maze Runner series by James Dashner. These books follow the journey of a group of teenagers trapped in a maze and their fight for survival in a dystopian world. Let’s take a closer look at each of the core books.

1. The Maze Runner (2009)

This is where the journey begins. The story follows Thomas, a young boy who wakes up with no memory in a place called the Glade. Surrounded by an enormous, ever-changing maze, he and a group of other boys must find a way out while confronting terrifying creatures called Grievers. The mystery deepens as they realize that their presence in the maze is part of a much larger experiment.

2. The Scorch Trials (2010)

After escaping the maze, Thomas and his friends quickly learn that their trials are far from over. The second book takes the survivors into a dangerous, post-apocalyptic world known as the Scorch. This landscape is plagued by a deadly disease called the Flare, and the group must navigate treacherous challenges set by WICKED (World In Catastrophe: Killzone Experiment Department), the organization responsible for the trials.

3. The Death Cure (2011)

The final book in the core trilogy delivers the answers readers have been seeking. Thomas and his friends are thrust into a battle to survive as the truth behind WICKED and the reason for the trials come to light. The world outside the trials is crumbling, and they must decide who to trust and what it means to be free.
Together, these three books form the foundation of the series. They follow a linear storyline filled with twists, turns, and moments of intense suspense.

4. The Kill Order (2012)

The first prequel takes place thirteen years before the events of The Maze Runner. It introduces new characters who experience the initial outbreak of the Flare virus and the subsequent collapse of society. 
While Thomas and the main Gladers do not appear in this novel, The Kill Order offers critical background on how the world came to be the way it is in the original trilogy. Fans of the series will appreciate the additional context it provides.

5. The Fever Code (2016)

This prequel, released several years after the original trilogy, serves as a bridge between The Kill Order and The Maze Runner. It follows Thomas, Teresa, and some of the other key characters during their early years, showing their involvement in the creation of the maze. This book sheds light on WICKED’s motivations and the characters’ relationships before they entered the maze, making it a must-read for fans looking to dive deeper into the series' lore.

Other Books in the Maze Runner Universe

In addition to the five main books, there are two additional works that expand the Maze Runner universe.

6. Crank Palace (2020)

Crank Palace is a novella that focuses on one of the beloved characters, Newt. This book tells Newt’s story after he contracts the Flare virus and is separated from the group. It’s a heartbreaking tale that fills in the gaps from The Death Cure and provides readers with more depth into Newt’s character.

7. The Maze Runner Files (2013)

The Maze Runner Files is a companion book that includes classified documents, emails, and other files related to the world of WICKED. This book offers fans additional insights into the series' background, including character profiles and the motivations behind WICKED’s actions

The Reading Order

If you're new to the Maze Runner series, you might wonder what order to read the books in. Here’s a suggested reading order to fully enjoy the series:

1. The Maze Runner (2009)
2. The Scorch Trials (2010)
3. The Death Cure (2011)
4. The Kill Order (2012) – Prequel
5. The Fever Code (2016) – Prequel
6. Crank Palace (2020) – Novella
7. The Maze Runner Files (2013) – Companion book

Is the Series Finished?

For now, it seems the Maze Runner series is complete. With five main books, one novella, and one companion book, James Dashner has wrapped up the storylines of Thomas and his friends. While there is always the possibility of more stories being told in this universe, no new books have been announced.
That said, the series' popularity has endured. The books have been adapted into three successful films, which introduced the world of The Maze Runner to an even wider audience. So even though the story is technically finished, its impact continues.

Conclusion

In total, we cover the answer to the question, how many books are in the Maze Runner series? There are a total of 7 books in the Maze Runner series: five main books, and two additional ones. As you make your way through the series, be prepared for unexpected twists and emotional moments that will keep you turning pages long into the night.