Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch your Mandibles

by Ben Run

Raise your antennas, open your mandibles, and start This is the first in a new series worth saving your grains for!Deep below the surface of Earth, in a dystopian, underground machine called Ant Nest, lives an ant named Ave. His mind is used to carry loads, his desires and passions are always kept one step from being fulfilled, and his thoughts and emotions are constantly monitored and adjusted. He happily serves his purpose.

Just like any other ant.
Ave is running a mind optimization stall at Ant Nest’s Souk alley, and the elixir-apps he cooks are known all over Ant Nest as magic potions that fix minds with no pains and aches. He doesn’t know much about witchcraft or wizardry. He just wants to help his mate-ants, please the priests who operate Ant Nest, and complete the tasks he gets from Hari—he who is Ant Nest and Ant Nest is him—as efficiently as possible.

Almost like any other ant.
One day, Ave gets a visit from a high-ranking priest who tells him he was found to be the most average ant in Ant Nest, and therefore, he has to push the button that will open Ant Nest's 12th Anniversary ceremonies. Ave doesn’t know that him pushing the button is the only way to save Ant Nest from imminent destruction by the evil queen of darkness. All he knows is that the timing is very inconvenient. Today, for the first time, he will see his secret love after she was hidden deep inside his mind for eleven years. That’s what she promised. He must refuse the priest. And that’s something no ant ever did.

Unlike any other ant.
Will Ave save Ant Nest from being destroyed by the evil queen? Will he see his secret love? And who will win the epic war that started deep inside Ave’s mind?

Find the answers in the new cyber-fantasy by Ben Run.

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 6, 2024

Reviews

[Phil Bolos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch Your Mandibles by Ben Run is an interesting story that takes the reader deep underground to a strange ant colony where magic and evolution exist side-by-side. Ave is an average ant who is trying to go about his life as average as possible. He knows what he needs to do and does it in a way that does not make him stand out. But, inside his mind he knows that he will soon see his one true love. All of that changes when he learns that the Evil Queen of Darkness is coming to his city, and the only thing that can stop her is Ave starting the 12t Anniversary Celebration. But, by doing that he is giving up his chance at true love. His choice will not only impact him, but every ant in the city. Anyone who likes dystopian stories will enjoy this read. It is unique and offers interesting characters and events. The characters could be developed more to give the reader more background, but the narrative flows well with what is provided.

[Thrifty Geek · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is such an abstract ride. It made for a confusing beginning, with the characters talking of vague entities. Run builds this amazing world of humanoid ants. The city of Ant Hill in which they call home these ants live by very strict schedules. Everything is synchronized down to the second how they stepped, when they slept, when they arrived at appointments, if you arrived too late or too early, it was very frowned upon. This rigid setup made me cringe in the best ways, you really hoped someone would shake it up. I even hoped for this more when you find they are living under strict religious rule where they serve a deity called Hari, who runs everything, you even have to pray to him to open doors. The Great Shepherd who leads the hill in Hari’s name is an amazing messed up villain to despise. Then we have this mysterious being called an Antlion in the beginning of the book, talking to the entity of their unborn child they dub Lucky, who we cut to occasionally as we see how this pair is affecting everything in Ave’s life. I wondered if this is their deity Hari, or a whole different higher being. I do love some of these ants abilities, I wish like these ants we could project images of what we were talking about in people’s heads. It’d be so helpful. Another humorous addition is the occasional numbered commentary on what is happening in Ave’s life that makes it feel like Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.
I found sometimes the fantastical words and concepts were a bit overwhelming to take in all at once. I would’ve liked a glossary in the book to help understand the terms we are getting hit with. I felt some of the scenes were a little too long. I kept finding myself losing focus and becoming frustrated at the pace.
If you love strange worlds and abstract stories I highly recommend this read. The mystery, the mayhem, one ant’s quest for love, it’s a fun and sometimes confusing ride.

[Desiree Delong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dystopian stories can be a dime a dozen. What better way to stand out amongst all the dystopian and apocalyptic stories out there than to set them in an ant colony? In Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch your Mandibles by Ben Run, we are introduced to the main character Ave, who is about as average as an ant as you can get. But just because he is average doesn’t mean he doesn’t have goals!

When you first start the story it’s like the author himself is talking to you. It pulls you in with its straightforward writing style before throwing humor and an ant’s existential thoughts at you. Sometimes, you tend to forget that the main character is an ant in an ant colony!

The main character, Ave is extremely relatable to the average person. He is an ant who just wants to do his job to meet his one true love. How many people haven’t been in that situation?

On the surface, one might think this type of concept won’t work. I mean a dystopia in an ant colony. It seems a little farfetched but once you start reading you’ll be sucked in by Ave’s characterization, sympathizing with his feeling towards his love and his duty to the colony.
Besides the immersive world Ben Run does a great way of painting, Ave’s character is extremely relatable. Yes, he might be an ant but it’s easy to understand how he must brave these dangers and try to save his people.

The plot alone will help make this book memorable to any reader that picks it up!

[Robin Knapp · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch your Mandibles" by Ben Run is one of the most refreshingly original books I’ve read in a while. Run’s writing is full of sharp wit, surreal humor, and clever wit, making it a thoroughly engaging read from start to finish. What I enjoyed most was the way the story took everyday, ordinary experiences and transformed them into something fantastical, making me see ordinary life in a new and often absurd light.

Run’s ability to balance absurdity with philosophical depth is impressive. There are moments of genuine reflection amid the chaos, particularly around the nature of perception and how we define reality. This balance between humor and existential musings kept the book from feeling too frivolous, giving it surprising layers of meaning.

For readers who enjoy books that break the mold, mix genres, and offer both entertainment and intellectual engagement, this book is a perfect choice. It’s a fun, thought-provoking journey that keeps you on your toes and leaves you pondering long after the final page.

[Taylor Oser-Lakins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben Run's book is a creative blend of dystopian fantasy and humor that makes for an engaging and thought-provoking read. The book’s strength is in Run's ability to transform ordinary aspects of life into a fantastical narrative, offering a unique perspective on conformity and individuality. As the underdog, Ave’s character is easy to root for, and his internal struggles add depth to the story. The author’s imaginative world-building in Ant Nest creates a surreal setting, while the mysterious 12th stone adds an intriguing layer of suspense. However, the book’s heavy use of surrealism may not appeal to every reader, as certain metaphors and descriptions sometimes disrupt the narrative flow. Yet, this book is a delight for those who appreciate a story that doesn’t fit neatly into a genre and challenges everyday storytelling.
Mr. Average and the 12th Stone is a refreshing read for fans of offbeat dystopian tales. Its humor, philosophical depth, and heartfelt character development make it a memorable journey.

[Mariah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! This cyber-fantasy novel had me captivated from the very beginning. Ave, the ant protagonist, lives in a dystopian underground world called Ant Nest, where his every thought and emotion is controlled. Running a mind optimization stall, Ave’s life changes when he's chosen to push a button for Ant Nest's anniversary, a task that could save their world from the evil queen of darkness. I found myself deeply invested in Ave's internal struggle between duty and his secret love. The tension and emotional complexity of his journey kept me eagerly turning pages. Ben Run’s storytelling is both imaginative and gripping, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good blend of suspense and fantasy. This book was a genuine surprise for me and nothing like I’ve read before. The author’s ability to take a unique and unusual concept and turn it into an enjoyable story is nothing short of incredible!

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fresh Spin on Dystopian Fiction...

"Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch your Mandibles" by Ben Run is an inventive cyber-fantasy that reimagines ant society as a dystopian underground world. The story follows Ave, a seemingly ordinary ant whose life takes an extraordinary turn when he's chosen to initiate a crucial ceremony.

Run's novel blends elements of science fiction, fantasy, and social commentary, creating a unique narrative landscape. The author's creativity shines in the intricate details of Ant Nest, from mind-altering elixirs to the omnipresent influence of Hari. While the premise is undoubtedly original, the execution sometimes falters in pacing and character depth. Nevertheless, this unconventional tale offers readers a fresh perspective on conformity, free will, and the power of individual choice in a regimented society.

[Ali Ayyaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Average and the 12th Stone" by Ben Run is an exceptional story set in a dystopian underground world deep below the Earth's surface in a machine known as the Ant Nest. The protagonist is an ant named Ave, an average ant who lives underground and embarks on a journey to find the mysterious 12th stone, a powerful object that holds the key to determining the future.

Throughout his journey, Ave faces many dangers and challenges and encounters various characters, friends, and foes who either aid or hinder his expedition. The story blend’s multiple themes of courage, perseverance, and the importance of individuals in overcoming obstacles. The story is engaging and transports the reader to an imaginary realm. The characters are well-developed and deeply connected, adding depth to the story and building hope for a better future. It is for fans of fiction novels

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no idea how people get so creative to make these types of stories, but I’m so glad they do, they make such fantastic entertainment! I think Ave, being an “ordinary” ant who turns out isn’t, seemed like a fantastic reflection of real world banality and conformity. Ave’s existence is content, if not entirely fulfilling. The fact that he just simply wishes to see his love being what triggers everything is just superb. The conflict is beautifully simple yet poignant and using an ant as the main character was a great idea, with its representation of a working ant of a collective. I liked how the looming presence of the evil queen adds another layer of suspense too.

Overall, I think was such a fresh and compelling take on the dystopian genre, and quirky as it is, I actually really enjoyed it.

[Valery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ben Run's novel "Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch Your Mandibles" is a clever and imaginative book that is refreshingly unique. Run offers a fresh, sometimes ridiculous take on everyday life with his surreal humor and razor-sharp wit, which turn regular occurrences into something spectacular. The book strikes a balance between silliness and sincere philosophical contemplation, especially regarding the nature of reality and perception. Ave, the main character and an ordinary ant in the strange realm of Ant Nest, sets out on a treacherous quest to locate the potent 12th stone. This intelligent, genre-bending story examines bravery, identity, and rebellion; it's an enjoyable and thought-provoking book.

[Lindsay DeRollo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Ant Adventure!

A unique adventure story about an ordinary ant named Ave, who lives in a machine in the underground world known as the Ant Nest. One day he is visited by a priest who tells him that due to his exceptional averageness he must find the magic stone that will open their 12th anniversary ceremony.

Suddenly Ave must now embark on a dangerous journey to save the Ant Nest from the evil Queen of Darkness, who is set on destroying their colony. He is also desperate to find his true love hidden deep inside his mind for many years. Can Ave find the hidden stone to open the ceremony in time, along with his true love, to save the Ant Nest from destruction? Read and find out!

[Ghulam Mustafa · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch Your Mandibles" by Ben Run is a quirky blend of surreal humor and dystopian fantasy. Run’s imaginative storytelling takes the mundane and flips it into an absurd, yet deeply meaningful exploration of conformity and individuality.

The world-building is vibrant and strange, creating a surreal underground society where hidden desires and unseen forces shape the lives of its inhabitants. The clever balance of humor and philosophical reflection keeps the narrative engaging, offering layers of depth amid the whimsy.

For fans of dystopian fiction and offbeat tales, this book is a creative and thought-provoking journey. It makes you laugh, think, and wonder—long after the final page.

[Anna Sainclivier · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am always a fan of the underdog trying to triumph over evil. I have always been cheering for the “little guy”. In this case, it is literally that, cheering for the ant to save what he can in a dystopian world. This book was a very entertaining and engaging read. The author writes well, and at the very beginning it is as if he is speaking directly to you. This pulls you into the story, and even though it is on the surface about an ant colony, his methods make it relatable. One can look at this story as allegorical, commenting on the human condition and the state of humanity. It is a story of good and evil. Overall, I would recommend this to anyone who is a fan of dystopian fiction.

[Abdullah Majeed · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Mr. Average and the 12th Stone: Watch Your Mandibles" by Ben Run is a refreshingly original read, featuring sharp wit and surreal humor that make it thoroughly engaging from start to finish. The author skillfully transforms ordinary experiences into something fantastical, prompting readers to view everyday life in an absurd light.

The balance between absurdity and philosophical depth is commendable, with moments of genuine reflection on perception and reality. For those who appreciate genre-bending works that combine entertainment with intellectual engagement, this book offers a fun and thought-provoking journey that lingers in the mind after the final page.

[Michele Klawitter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Average and the 12th Stone offers a refreshing mix of dystopian drama and absurdity. Ben Run crafts a story full of intriguing twists as Ave, an unlikely hero, faces the pressures of both personal desires and societal expectations. The creative setting of Ant Nest is both unique and imaginative, while Ave’s journey is relatable in its exploration of identity and rebellion. Fans of quirky, character-driven stories will find this book an entertaining and thoughtful escape into a world like no other.

[Payal Sinha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author transports the readers to an enchanted Ants' World where ants retain their original traits while displaying human-like feelings and abilities, albeit of the futuristic kind. We are introduced to the super villain, the antlion who is the terror of every ant, and then there is the very average ant who dares to take risks and goes on exciting adventure. The book is filled with twists and turns and amusing dialogues even in tension-filled moments with a promise of continuing adventure in its sequel.

[Agbata Trust · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about a group of shepherds who live in a place called Ant Nest. They're in charge of keeping everything balanced by controlling powerful forces called "urge forces." These forces are getting out of control because they're missing a special stone that helps keep everything stable. The leader, the Great Shepherd, warns the others that if they don't fix the problem soon, Ant Nest will fall apart. To hold things together temporarily, one of the shepherds has to take on the dangerous task of controlling the wild forces, but it could come with serious consequences.

[Liz Blair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an entertaining read. I was could not put this down once I started reading it. “Mr. Average” gives you something to think about. This book takes every day events and rehashes them into something extraordinary and unexpected. The author really makes you question reality and how you perceive it. I found myself reflecting on daily life a lot. Just trivial things seemed to have such a deeper meaning. This book really makes you think but also provides enough entertainment to not overwhelm you with “heavy” thoughts.

[S. Jeyran Main · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben Run’s *Mr. Average and the 12th Stone* is a clever, dystopian tale set in the mechanical Ant Nest, where Ave, an average ant, faces an unexpected choice. Selected to push a button at the colony's 12th anniversary, Ave unknowingly holds the fate of the Ant Nest in his mandibles, as it faces destruction by an evil queen. Torn between duty and his long-hidden love, Ave must make a decision no ant has ever dared.

With humor and wit, Run explores themes of conformity and self-discovery in a unique, ant-driven world. A fast, thought-provoking read for fans of allegorical fiction

[Rocio · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a creative and thought-provoking book! Mr. Average and the 12th Stone is a deep dive into themes like control, destiny, and choice. The author makes the story feel real and alive. I loved the world-building and the way Ave’s inner conflict played out. His refusal to follow orders and his quest for his hidden love made me see him as more than just an ant. The story had a good balance of humor, drama, and suspense. I enjoyed every moment and would love to see more stories set in this universe!

[Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Average and the 12th Stone by Ben Run is a quirky and imaginative dive into a dystopian world where ants live like humans in an underground machine. Ave, the most "average" ant, finds himself thrust into a mission to save Ant Nest from an evil queen, all while trying to reunite with his secret love. The blend of cyber-fantasy and ant-themed intrigue makes for a unique and oddly relatable tale. If you enjoy offbeat stories with unexpected depth, this one’s worth the read.

[Momna · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Mr. Average and the 12th Stone" by Ben Run is an inventive blend of fantasy and dystopia, offering readers a unique take on individuality and conformity within an underground society. Run's writing is imaginative and whimsical, weaving themes of control, self-discovery, and rebellion into a quirky, surreal narrative. Fans of dystopian fantasy will appreciate the creative world-building and subtle commentary on societal norms. Overall, an engaging and thought-provoking read.

[Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unusual and captivating book

Mr. Average and the 12th Stone is an unusual and captivating book. The idea of ants having their own dystopian society, complete with mind-control and magic elixirs, is something I haven’t come across before. The tension builds up beautifully, and the story kept me guessing till the end. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh take on dystopian fiction.

[Veronica Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book from Ben Run in a way reminds me of the movies Antz and A Bug's Life. I think the main character, Ave, is not as average as the other ants. What makes this book unique is the dystopia with a humorous twist. I believe that this is a literary work that should be adapted into a unique animated movie and/or series.

[Alexandra Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so fun to read!! The dystopian Ant World was so creative and vivid that I felt like I was actually there at some points. The book is full of wit and humor and adventure; it’s something completely different that what I’ve read before, containing futuristic life. The hero ant’s adventures were my favorite part of the whole story.

[Yolanda Gomez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t know what to expect from this book, but I was hooked from the first chapter. The story is imaginative and full of surprises. Ben Run does an amazing job creating a vivid underground world and an ant society that’s surprisingly complex
The writing is sharp, and the dialogue between ants is witty. This book is a clever commentary on conformity and self-discovery. A memorable read!

[Mia C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a unique experience! Mr. Average and the 12th Stone draws you into a world that’s strange and familiar. The author takes a simple concept such as a dystopian ant society, and turns it into something thought-provoking and thrilling. Ave’s character is relatable despite being an ant. His struggle to follow his programmed path while discovering his individuality really made me think about the nature of freedom. I found myself rooting for him more than I expected. It’s a perfect read for anyone who enjoys quirky, creative stories.