Plot summary, “The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving” by Jonathan Evison in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving" is a novel written by Jonathan Evison. It was published in 2012 and received widespread acclaim for its heartfelt exploration of loss, redemption, and the power of human connection. The story follows the journey of Benjamin Benjamin, a man who becomes a caregiver after facing personal tragedy.
The novel begins with Benjamin, a middle-aged man who has recently gone through a divorce and lost his children. In need of a fresh start, he enrolls in a caregiving course called "The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving." Through the course, Benjamin learns the practical skills required to care for individuals with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
Benjamin's first caregiving job is with Trevor, a teenager with muscular dystrophy who is confined to a wheelchair. As Benjamin and Trevor form an unlikely bond, they embark on a road trip across the American West, seeking to confront their own personal demons and find meaning in their lives.
Along their journey, Benjamin and Trevor encounter a cast of eccentric characters, experience moments of humor and tragedy, and confront the realities of their own vulnerabilities. Through their shared experiences, they learn about acceptance, forgiveness, and the transformative power of human connection.
"The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving" is a poignant and humorous novel that explores themes of loss, healing, and the complexities of human relationships. It delves into the challenges faced by caregivers and the impact of caregiving on both the caregiver and the person being cared for. Evison's writing style combines emotional depth with wit and captures the intricacies of the characters' struggles and growth.
Overall, "The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving" is a moving and compassionate novel that explores the profound impact of caregiving on the lives of both the caregiver and the person they care for. It is a story of resilience, friendship, and the possibility of finding redemption in unexpected places.