Don't Skip Out On Me by Willy Vlautin

Set against the vast, rugged landscapes of the American West, this poignant novel follows the journey of a young man named Horace Hopper, who is determined to prove his worth by becoming a professional boxer. Raised on a sheep ranch in Nevada by a loving but aging couple, Horace struggles with his mixed heritage and a deep-seated sense of inadequacy. As he embarks on a quest to redefine his identity and escape his perceived limitations, Horace encounters the harsh realities of the world outside his rural upbringing. The story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, all while capturing the quiet beauty and melancholy of the human spirit.