The novel's plot revolves around the relationship between the titular caregiver, Ben Benjamin, and his teenage charge, Trevor Conklin, who suffers from Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Evison dedicated the book to one of his patients, Case Levenson, a man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy,[1] citing their experience together as a major inspiration for the novel.

[3] Gilmore highlights the road trip, stating "... the journey is reckless and wild, infused with the sad rage that makes good comedy great.

[4] Charles stated the novel is "not perfect" but is "moving and funny" and pointed out how one of Evison's own odd jobs as a caregiver lent him insight into telling "a story about someone caring for a disabled person that isn’t gauzed in sentimentality or bitterness."

[7] The book was adapted into an indie film entitled The Fundamentals of Caring, starring Paul Rudd, Selena Gomez, Craig Roberts, Jennifer Ehle, and Megan Ferguson.