The Art of Racing in the Rain Book Review

One of the most heartwarming and uplifting books to ever hit the book shelves is The Art Of Racing In The Rain, by Garth Stein. While the cover photo, that of an assumed golden retriever may hint at the story line, the title is sure to give nothing away as far as the plot is concerned. Yet, this novel is sure to become a modern day classic.

The story of The Art Of Racing In The Rain, without giving away the plots and its surprises is a story of family life but told from the perspective of the family dog. Main character, Enzo, ponders life in a way that all of us have done before. The added twist--he also ponders life as it effects a dog. For example, Enzo has a burning obsession as to why he does not have thumbs in the human sense. His lack of thumbs may be the only real difference as the personification of the character will have you believing that Enzo is anything but a dog. Enzo is the quintessential best friend, the one you can tell anything to, the one who would do anything for you, and the one who feels your pain when you are feeling it.

As an avid animal lover, this book is not telling me anything I didn't already know. From experience, I know that a dog is a companion and ownership is an experience that everyone should have at least once in life. After reading this book, you will long for such an adventure of canine life if you have never had one. While other books may have sung the praises of dog ownership or replicated funny antics that sometimes come with dog ownership, The Art Of Racing In The Rain speaks to the heart of canine life.

Certainly, there are particular elements of the storyline that can be hard to read. However, even these situations can be wonderful teaching opportunities for parents. Take, for example, the subject matter of death of a loved one, or the loss of a parent. This book will allow the lines of communication for such a discussion and can be used as a tool for children and parents to ask questions and seek solutions.

Perhaps the best part of the storyline is the promise of the future. This is a life affirming tale. This is a story that offers hope and promise. Enzo, and his family will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned. For current dog owners, you will look at your pet very differently. For perspective pet owners, you will be clamoring to move pet ownership to the front burner. For anyone else, if after reading this you don't seek some sort of animal companionship, you may not be suited for human companionship.

As far as how the title refers to the book, you will understand rather quickly as it pertains to the profession of Enzo's owner. However, to me it reflects the philosophy of living life to the fullest while we can. Enzo understands this and so will you by book's end.

It is rumored that this wonderful book is soon to be made into a movie. My experience has been that movies never do justice to the novel. I urge you to pick up this book today and make it part of your family's library.