by Leif Enger
First published 2024
Leif Enger's "I Cheerfully Refuse" follows the story of Nels, a quiet farmer content with his simple life. But when a devastating diagnosis upends his world, Nels makes a bold choice: he refuses to surrender to the disease. Embarking on a quixotic journey, he navigates a world that increasingly seems stacked against him, facing down skeptical doctors, well-meaning family, and his own physical limitations. As Nels stubbornly pursues unconventional treatments, he discovers an unexpected strength within, learning to cherish each moment and find joy in the face of adversity. With lyrical prose and a steadfast protagonist, this poignant tale celebrates the power of the human spirit to overcome even the greatest of challenges.
Genres: fiction, literary-fiction, contemporary, 21st-century, contemporary-romance, family-drama
Vibes: emotional, intimate, lyrical, thought-provoking
Tropes: overcoming-adversity, redemption, second-chance
336 pages · Hardcover · Grove Press
Content warnings: terminal-illness