Wednesday, July 8, 2009

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein -- A Book Review


Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), 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. Through Denny, 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.On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through: the sacrifices Denny has made to succeed professionally; the unexpected loss of Eve, Denny's wife; the three-year battle over their daughter, Zoë, whose maternal grandparents pulled every string to gain custody. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family, holding in his heart the dream that Denny will become a racing champion with Zoë at his side. A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life...as only a dog could tell it.

For more info visit: www.garthstein.com

1 comment:

  1. One of my husband’s co-workers gave me this book to read and I read it in less than 24 hours and I loved it. The last two books that I’ve read, I’ve come across the most unlikely narrators. In this book there is a very surprising narrator. The Art of Racing in the Rain is narrated by a dog named Enzo. Enzo is the world’s coolest and greatest dog. Enzo believes that it is his mission in life, to protect, care for and to look after his humans. Enzo’s family includes Danny a race car driver, his wife Eve and their daughter Zoe. They suffer a great loss and Enzo feels it is up to him to keep them together. Enzo uses race car driving as a metaphor for life and although I’m not a fan of race car driving I am a fan of this book. Be prepared to laugh, cry and get angry as Enzo takes you for a fly by the seat drive through his life. After you read this book you will look at your dog with tears in your eyes and fall in love all over again then wonder what do they wish to tell me. The Art of Racing in the Rain is deeply written with emotions and heart. I would recommend this book to anyone.

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