Facing the Beast Within

The Anxiety of Cameron Poole (The Order of the Stones, Book 1)

By: Mark Cheverton

Narrated by: Tyler Kent

Length: 6 hrs and 29 mins

Publisher's summary

New from internationally published New York Times best-selling author Mark Cheverton, who has written 27 books, with over 2 million copies in print.

Monsters are invading: demons, gargoyles, and gremlins.... Oh my!

Cameron Poole has a problem, a big problem: he's a bully magnet who struggles with anxiety. Being the smallest sixth-grader at his summer camp, everything around him triggers his everyday struggles with anxiety, or with his Beast, making it impossible for him to do the same things other kids can do. In a constant state of worry, Cameron feels like a perpetual failure, his self-esteem crushed. That's bad enough, but when Cameron learns that mythical monsters are trying to invade his camp, things go from bad to worse.

Malphas, the Demon Lord from a parallel world called Agartha, wants to bring mythical creatures from his world to form a monster army, attack Camp Pontchartrain, and begin his invasion. But before he can bring the biggest and most ferocious monsters to Earth, he must find the seven Skull Keys that will keep the gateway between worlds open forever.

Against all logic, Cameron is chosen to lead an unusual collection of kids to stop Malphas from finding the Skull Keys. But the Demon Lord of Agartha has other plans. He sends mythical creatures to Earth—gremlins, imps, and gargoyles—to find the keys and destroy anyone in their way.

To stop Malphas and his monster army from getting all the Skull Keys, Cameron must face his deepest fears while trying to keep his friends safe. But when he learns Malphas's real plan, Cameron's blood runs cold with fear.

Can Cameron control his anxiety and confront his Beast while battling an army of minotaurs, banshees, ghouls, golems, and other nightmarish monsters?

Buckle up and get ready for a thrilling adventure!

~ ~ ~

While writing this novel, Cheverton worked with a large team of psychologists, social workers, and licensed mental health counselors to learn about the many symptoms of anxiety as well as how these professionals teach their patients coping strategies to help them stand up against their own Beasts. These learnings, coupled with Cheverton's own experiences with his son's anxiety, were woven throughout the story and form a teaching tool for parents and therapists while at the same time offering kids a spine-tingling adventure that will keep them listening.

Hopefully, kids with anxiety will find a kindred spirit in Cameron Poole and feel that they're not alone in their personal storm of fear and doubt. Parents will gain a little understanding as to what their children are going through, and hopefully, people without anxiety will gain a little insight and compassion toward those suffering from this terrible affliction.

©2022 Mark Cheverton (P)2023 Mark Cheverton

Good Book

This outstanding audiobook is an incredible resource for understanding anxiety and finding effective ways to manage it. In addition, the author's skill as a storyteller shines through as he interweaves the tribulations of sympathetic kids who must contend with sound strategies and tips.
This audiobook offers a compelling narrative and actionable advice for coping with anxiety, and it is an absolute necessity for households with children. It gives children and parents who are battling with concern the opportunity to find hope.

Facing More Than Just Monsters

Navigating through "Facing the Beast Within" was like stumbling upon a treasure trove of both thrills and therapeutic wisdom. Mark Cheverton conjures a spellbinding blend of the fantastical and the painfully real, tossing you into a world riddled with mythical creatures all while tethering you to Cameron Poole's poignant struggle with anxiety. No character has ever made me feel more seen than Cameron, the underdog who finds himself in a battle far more terrifying than summer camp bullies. He's not just slaying demons from Agartha; he's grappling with the beasts that gnaw at his mental well-being, making the stakes much more than life and death—they're about self-discovery and conquering one's inner turmoil. Cheverton doesn't merely brush the surface of anxiety; he dives into its labyrinthine complexities, thanks to the cadre of mental health experts who advised him. It's more than an audiobook; it's an adrenaline-pumping ride through a world you wish to escape but a story you never want to leave. A must-listen for anyone who has been ensnared by the tendrils of anxiety or wishes to understand the turbulent storms others face.

Great Book With a Great Message

I recently listened to this book about a boy named Cameron Poole who struggles with anxiety and being bullied. The story takes place at a summer camp where Cameron is constantly triggered by his surroundings. But things take a turn for the worse when he learns that mythical monsters are trying to invade the camp. Malphas, the Demon Lord from a parallel world, wants to bring monsters to Earth and attack the camp. Cameron is chosen to lead a group of kids to stop Malphas from finding the seven Skull Keys that would keep the gateway between worlds open forever. The story is full of action, adventure, and suspense as Cameron faces his fears and battles an army of nightmarish monsters. It's an exciting book that kept me on the edge of my seat, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good adventure story.

Good Stuff

I’m really glad for what Facing the Beast Within is doing here to help kids who need help- and help parents who need help in helping their kids- with a tricky problem. As a former English teacher I used to have a mini-curriculum themed similarly to “the beast within,” coincidental to Halloween time, to dabble in a bit of light ‘horror,’ but with the intent of getting students to contemplate internal struggles in their own lives as can be found in literature. This book is a fun, more direct way of accomplishing what I already agree is a worthy goal. Good stuff.

A Journey of Personal Growth and Courage

"Facing the Beast Within" is an engaging audiobook that combines fantasy and personal growth. The audiobook explores the protagonist's battle with anxiety, featuring insights from mental health professionals. It creates a tense atmosphere as the group faces various monsters while the protagonist confronts his inner struggles. This audiobook offers an exciting adventure with a heartfelt message for those dealing with anxiety and a chance for others to understand this condition better. The narrator was a great storyteller!

This should be a classroom essential

"Facing the Beast Within: The Anxiety of Cameron Poole" is a masterful work that deserves every one of its five stars. Mark Cheverton has woven an enthralling tale that not only captivates readers but also sheds light on an important issue—anxiety. As a New York Times best-selling author with 27 books under his belt, Cheverton brings his storytelling prowess to a whole new level in this gripping narrative.

The protagonist, Cameron Poole, is a relatable character whose struggles with anxiety hit home for many readers. His journey from being a bully magnet to a courageous leader is nothing short of inspirational. Cheverton skillfully uses Cameron's experiences to create a compelling narrative that explores the depths of anxiety and self-doubt.

What sets this book apart is its dual purpose. On one hand, it's an action-packed adventure that keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Cameron's quest to stop the invading monsters. On the other hand, it's a powerful tool for raising awareness about anxiety and providing valuable insights into coping strategies.

I was drawn into this work because of the collaboration between Cheverton and a team of mental health professionals, and their impact is evident throughout the story. The book educates readers about anxiety symptoms and offers hope and understanding to those who may be going through similar struggles. It's a story of resilience, friendship, and facing one's fears head-on.

"Facing the Beast Within" is a must-read for young readers dealing with anxiety, their parents seeking insight, and anyone who wants to embark on an unforgettable adventure while gaining a deeper understanding of the human experience. Cheverton's storytelling and psychological depth blend make this book a gem. Five stars, without a doubt!

A heartwarming story of transformation and growth

I just finished listening to the story. I really liked it. It is heartwarming to accompany Cameron on his journey to “conquer the beast” as he successfully is able to “starve the beast” and win. I love how the story keeps the listener entertained and curious to know what happens next. This is a very nice story of courage, transformation, and growth.
As is stated in the story: “Avoiding a stressful situation doesn’t help you learn to manage your anxiety. Hiding from the problem doesn’t make it go away. Avoiding stressful situations and hiding from the problem just serves to feed your Beast. Facing things and using coping strategies will starve your Beast. You need to apply the coping strategies and make your Beast go hungry, so you can be in control of your thoughts.”

A Pleasant and Helpful Tail

Facing the Beast Within is a captivating story authorised by Mark Cheverton. The author presents a clear and empathetic picture of Cameron's inner suffering. Through Cameron's eyes, listeners are given a glimpse into the dreadful impacts of anxiety, from racing thoughts to terrifying bodily sensations.
It will help with your anxiety relief.
Parents or guardians should definitely listen to this, because by doing so, they get to know what their children are going through, guide them to help their child come out of the anxiety, and give them assurance that they’re not alone. I’ll must give this book a rating of 5 out of 5.

A Tense Story of Anxiety and Courage

One of the book's most notable aspects is its depiction of anxiousness. Cameron's inner anguish is vividly and sympathetically depicted by the author. Readers gain insight into the terrible effects of anxiety via Cameron's eyes, from rushing thoughts to physical symptoms of terror. It's a compelling and honest portrayal that will speak to everyone who has dealt with anxiety.

Every Kid With Anxiety

I am floored for a book that relates to every kid with anxiety. This book was written perfectly to be a message for these kids. The main character is relatable with real world experiences and learning to cope. Must listen!!