Baker notes that this is her effort at creating the book that she needed herself during one of the most difficult times in her life. Providing actionable advice on ways to cope, maintain, and endure through a life-threatening diagnosis, Baker manages to keep the text upbeat and positive while still shedding light on the hard realities of chemotherapy treatments, struggles with unbearable pain, and the emotional toll of it all, especially grief and loss. Even there, though, Baker finds some hope, pointing out “Changes bring loss, and some of my losses brought gains,” such as strengthened relationships with those who matter most. Baker also addresses the importance of individuals who care for cancer patients, from friends and family to medical professionals, and explores the tricky question of what not to say to cancer patients, from empty platitudes to unwanted advice to quips like “You can get a pink wig now.” (“There really isn’t any upside to losing all your hair,” Baker notes.)

Helpful advice abounds, including tools like the 4-7-8 breathing method, plus guidance on mindfulness tactics and refocusing techniques that readers will find helpful during every stage of grief. Written from hard-won experience and spiced with wit and warmth, If Cancer is a Gift, Can I Return It? is an empowering, illuminating memoir that will resonate with cancer patients, their caregivers, family and friends. This is a frank and honest narrative, blending personal experiences and professional expertise, from a writer who pulls no punches from diagnosis to remission.

Takeaway: Insightful, advice-packed account of a nurse’s cancer diagnosis.

Comparable Titles: Claudean Nia Robinson's I Forgot to Cry, Alison Porter's Stronger than Before.

Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A