Crank Palace

by James Dashner

Part of The Maze Runner, book 3.5

First published 2020

Newt has survived the Maze, the Scorch, and the Death Cure trials alongside Thomas and his friends. Now he faces his most difficult challenge alone. The virus courses through his body, slowly stealing his mind and pushing him toward madness. Rather than let his friends witness his deterioration, Newt slips away from the Berg while they are in Denver. He leaves behind only a brief message that conceals the truth about his condition. Fleeing from both his pursuers and other infected Cranks, Newt travels alone until he reaches the Crank Palace. This grim facility serves as the final destination for those who have lost all hope of recovery. Here, Newt meets Keisha, a young mother, and her son Dante. With their help, he begins to accept what lies ahead. As events in the Death Cure reach their climax, Newt's journey approaches its end. His story builds toward one last meeting with his closest friend.

Genres: dystopia, adventure, action, post-apocalyptic

Vibes: dark, emotional, suspenseful

Tropes: found-family, terminal-illness

Setting: Maze, Scorch, Death Cure, Denver, Crank Palace

Period: 21st-century

Audio CD · Tantor Media Inc

Content warnings: mental-illness, suicide

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