Book Review: The Art of Racing in the Rain

The Art of Racing in the Rain
by Garth Stein
Published by HarperCollins
Publication Date May 13, 2008
Source: Library
Genres: General Fiction
Goodreads

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. On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through.

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.

I’ve always hated books about animals — Black Beauty just wasn’t for me. Maybe it is because of this and my extremely low expectations but I actually kind of liked it. The dog was actually rather intelligent — more the Lassie type so that probably helped my disinterest in animal books as he was a little more human. Although, I think I’d commit Harry Caray if I ever had to read Marley and Me.