After being evicted from his long-time home, Ollie Jordan struggles to maintain his autonomy while navigating the complex, often volatile relationship with his intellectually disabled son. Ollie Jordan, a man defined by his stubborn pride and limited resources, finds himself displaced from his New Hampshire shack. He must reconcile his desire for independence with the heavy responsibility of caring for his son, a figure who serves as both a source of affection and deep-seated frustration. The narrative examines the harsh realities of rural poverty and the psychological toll of familial obligation. The story unfolds through a gritty, character-focused lens that emphasizes the internal and external pressures shaping Ollie's choices.

Readers frequently highlight the raw, unflinching portrayal of the Jordan family's precarious existence. Discussion often centers on the author's ability to balance Ollie's abrasive personality with the genuine, if complicated, love he holds for his son. Critics often point to the stark, atmospheric prose that captures the specific cultural landscape of rural New England. The pacing is noted for being deliberate, allowing the reader to fully inhabit the protagonist's limited and often claustrophobic world. Many find the book's refusal to offer easy resolutions to be its most compelling feature.