Have you ever felt that real life can be mind-numbingly dull at times? The Eye of Minds is a complex, action-packed, and captivating story written by James Dashner, featuring a futuristic world where the majority of people spend their time in a completely different reality, the "VirtNet", where you can be whoever you want to be; nothing is impossible, as long as you have either money or hacking skills. The real world is neglected. Rules in the VirtNet are enforced by "VirtNet Security", also known as the VNS.  

The story follows a sixteen-year-old gamer, Michael, and his best friends, Sarah and Bryson. The author writes on page 12 that "They knew him like no one else, and they didn't care what he said or did or wore or ate." The trio has been ordered by the VNS to investigate a mysterious character, Kaine, who has been terrorizing the virtual world for the past few months. In addition, the VNS wants Michael to find out more about "The Mortality Doctrine", which has been linked to Kaine. In the ensuing virtual adventure, Michael and his buddies need to overcome all kinds of physical and mental challenges, such as unbreakable programs, creatures who devour minds, and endless darkness. The three gifted hackers search for clues in a wide range of locations, from barber shops to volcanoes. The resulting story is a masterpiece.

Dashner uses vivid descriptions of Michael's surroundings, so readers can feel as if they're travelling with him, feel the fear the main characters are facing, and empathize with them. This book keeps readers always wanting to know what comes next. Each chapter of the book is divided up into multiple "scenes", and each one is full of suspense. The novel is not only about hardships, though: despite grim situations, Dashner still manages to provide comic relief through friendly banter between the three best friends. On page 154, the text states, " 'Fine,' Bryson said. 'And how about we don't get killed? We're forming bad habits.' 'Amen,', Michael responded. 'Dying is my new least favorite thing.' " But Michael's companions are not there just to lighten the mood, as they keep him motivated and save his life several times throughout the story. This book also has educational value because it displays many examples of cooperation, perseverance, and bravery in the face of danger. Some of the situations are violent and may be disturbing to younger readers. I strongly recommend not to read this book at night. Overall, James Dashner's book, The Eye of Minds, is a great book to read despite being a bit graphic.