"Lean On, Gerald" is an advent calendar for the emotionally exhausted, the quietly chaotic, and anyone who's ever tried to feel festive while holding it together one day at a time. This collection of 24 short stories-one for each day leading up to Christmas-offers dry humor, gentle breakdowns, and the kind of honesty that only December can provoke. Written in a diary-like voice, the stories explore tangled lights, awkward dinners, misplaced expectations, and the strange beauty of surviving the season without pretending it's perfect. It's not a guide to holiday cheer. It's a companion for those who find the holidays overwhelming, hilarious, and occasionally profound. If you've ever whispered "I'm fine" while staring at a blinking light, this book is for you.