[BOOK REVIEW] You Can't Keep A Good Elf Down by Janne Swearengen

by Cyrus Webb

Challenges come to us all. What we have to decide is if we're going to be able to learn from them and get stronger or let them consume us. 

For Janne Swearengen it wasn't a difficult decision at all. In her book YOU CAN'T KEEP A GOOD ELF DOWN we are able to see how she not just deals with a cancer diagnosis, but the way she also chooses to learn and grow when it comes to herself and others. 

This book was even more endearing to me while I was reading it as my younger brother was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in early 2026. As I was able to take the journey of Janne's treatment and dealing with the challenges she faced, I shared it with my brother hoping he would find it inspiring as he went through his own cancer journey. 

What stands out the most in YOU CAN'T KEEP A GOOD ELF DOWN is Janne's choice to look for the bright spots, appreciate the little things and glean lessons about humanity, the importance of hope and the appreciation for the loved ones around us. The book is sure to help anyone dealing with challenges realize not just the importance of the right attitude but the willingness to fight. 

Giving up was never an option for Janne. Nor should it be for us as well. Even when you seem to be at your lowest point, don't give up. Victory is something you can attain. You just have to keep going in order to get it.