The Art of Racing in the Rain* by Garth Stein has everything: love, tragedy, redemption, danger, and most especially-the canine narrator Enzo. This old soul of a dog has much to teach to us about being human. I loved this book.” -Sara Gruen, author of “Water for Elephants”
This month’s favorite book was picked by Patti, and is a book that will leave you with a warm feeling for the dog in your life. Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul, and he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. The concept: when a dog finishes his life, his next incarnation will be that of a man, not all dogs, only those who are ready and Enzo is ready. Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn’t simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life’s ordeals.
If you’ve ever wondered what your dog is thinking? Stein’s third novel offers an answer. Enzo is a lab terrier mix picked from a farm outside of Seattle to ride shotgun with race car driver Denny Swift. Denny meets and marries Eve, has a daughter, Zoe, and risks his savings and his life to make it on the professional racing circuit. Denny and his family go through many trials with Enzo at their side, as he heroically stands by them to preserve the Swift family. Holding on to the dream of Denny becoming a successful race car driver with his family at his side, Enzo narrates this story and as you read about all the heart wrenching and captivating adventures this family goes, you find yourself tearing up and in the next chapter laughing out loud!
“I savored Garth Stein’s The Art of Racing in the Rain for many reasons: a dog who speaks, the thrill of competitive racing, a heart-tugging storyline, and–best of all-the fact that it is a meditation on humility and hope in the face of despair. Since finishing this engagingly unique novel, I’ve found myself staring at my own dog, thinking, Hmm, I wonder…..” -Wally Lamb, Author of “She’s come undone”
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