Quantcast

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

Garth Stein’s The Art of Racing in the Rain narrated by Enzo the dog shows us just how similar sentient beings can be in their emotions, connections, and reactions.

“I’ve always felt almost human. I’ve always known that there’s something about me that’s different than other dogs. Sure. I’m stuffed into a dog’s body, but that’s just the shell. It’s what’s inside that’s important. The soul. And my soul is very human.” (Page 3)

Enzo is just a pup when he meets his new owner and friend Denny, and his life is all about racing and being a companion. When Denny meets Eve, Enzo must make adjustments and learn to fit new people into his life. Denny and Eve have a daughter Zoe, and Denny makes his way in the racing world until things start to go awry.

Stein has a way with words that captures the essence of Enzo and his devotion to his family. Readers will enjoy Enzo’s theories about reincarnation, family life, human communication, and more. Enzo’s examination of why dogs do not have thumbs and how humans have bred them that way and why is humorous.

“George Clooney is my fourth favorite actor because he’s exceptionally clever at helping cure children of diseases on reruns of ER, and because he looks a little like me around the eyes.” (Page 125)

There is a great deal of racing jargon and discussion in the book, but readers will find these serve more to help Enzo explain his feelings about the events of his life and how his family dynamics work. Overall, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a fast-paced, enjoyable read, but be prepared for some tugging of the heart strings.


The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein was my selection for the Dog Days of Summer 2009, sponsored by The Literate Housewife.

DON’T FORGET:

You have until Aug. 28 to vote for Charlee in the Dog Days of Summer Photo Contest. Help a Hot Dog out!

Also Reviewed By:
Carolina Gal’s Literary Cafe
Books on the Brain
Jen’s Book Thoughts
The Literate Housewife
Fyrefly’s Blog

Dog Days of Summer 2009–Photo Contest

As you know, this week kicks of the Dog Days of Summer 2009 reading challenge and giveaway at The Literate Housewife.

Your first task is to head on over to The Literate Housewife and vote on your favorite summer photo featuring dogs. Of course, you’re wondering why I’m talking about this. . . well, you shouldn’t be.

My hubby and Keeshond Charlee are up in the poll. Check them out and vote! I hope you will vote for them. It was a really hot day camping and hiking.

Meanwhile, I should be posting a great review of The Art of Racing in the Rain sometime this week.

Stay tuned for other announcements about the Dog Days of Summer 2009.

Also, I have a great international giveaway for the Rooftops of Tehran going on through August 24, 2009.

Dog Days of Summer 2009

Have you heard about the Dog Days of Summer celebration put together by The Literate Housewife?

All you have to do is read and review one of the books she’s reviewing that week and post your review between August 24 and August 28.

Here are the books she’s reading: (I’ll be reading the one in BOLD)

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Secrets of Happiness by Sarah Dunn
The Dogs of Babel by Carolyn Parkhurst
Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck

Part 2 of the celebration is to submit a photo of you, your family, and your pets (not just dogs), and encourage friends and family to vote for you. All pictures are due by August 24 (which means I need to get a move on!)

Part 3 is to comment on The Literate Housewife‘s reviews for additional entries into the bookmarks giveaway.

I hope you will all join in the fun.