The Art of Racing in the Rain: A Novel by Garth Stein

The Art of Racing is a quick read. It is told mainly through the eyes/thoughts of Enzo, a sweet, smart dog!

Enzo's life is pretty easy for a dog -- who's only wish is be human in his next life. He is loyal to his owner and together they go on a life journey. One that involves, love, marriage, a child, death, betrayal and car racing.

Take out all the long, tedious, boring details dealing with cars and racing and you have a pretty good book. I loved the dog -- hated the racing. The character's could use some more development (with the exception of, Enzo) and the "shocking" plot twits are rather cliche.

Check it out or borrow it. Skip over the car racing passages(among others) and just enjoy the story of, Enzo.

Grade: B- [Without, Enzo this book would receive a D, rating]

Overview [B&N]
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. Having learned what it takes to be a compassionate and successful person, the wise canine can barely wait until his next lifetime, when he is sure he will return as a man. 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..