"The Maze Runner" and Predictions

"The Maze Runner" is a book that is perfect for letting students predict.  We just finished Chapter 32, where Minho helps Thomas get geared up for his first day as a Runner.  Thomas learns that they can make request via The Box.   Our class talked about why in the world the Creators would want to help the Gladers.  This sparked more conversations about why they are there, what's at the end of the Maze, etc. 

So, what IS the balance between the help of the Creators, and their cruelty?

"The Maze Runner" discussion

We had another interesting (and somewhat lively) discussion in class today.  It centered around poor Thomas, and what you can do when people don't believe you.  In reality, it sucks, and we've all been there.  For Thomas, his memory has truly been wiped, but some Gladers doubt that he is telling the truth.

So what can Thomas do?

Does he need to be concerned with the opinions of others?

What is he doing to hurt his case? (Should he continue to keep secrets?)

"The Maze Runner" and justice

We had an interesting discussion about justice in my class after yesterday's reading.  Two examples were used from the book:

*Ben, who was Banished for trying to kill Thomas (when he was still recovering from the Changing).
*Thomas, who was given a day in the Slammer and elected a Runner after breaking the Number One Rule (and saving Alby's life...and probably Minho's, too).

Who determines justice? Were both decisions just? When is it okay to bend rules, and when shouldn't you?