It's hard to know exactly how to describe Garth Stein's novel The Art of Racing in the Rain (#449), except that it's profoundly affecting. I've been meaning to read this book every since I heard Mr. Stein speak at our library system's BookMania! several years ago. I couldn't imagine a book whose narrator is a dog being about a professional race car driver, but somehow, Stein makes it all work with Enzo's philosophical takes on life in general, and his desire to be born a human in his next life.
Life is complicated for Denny Swift and his young family. His wife Eve is suffering from an illness, and it's difficult to juggle her needs, and those of their daughter Zoe, against his racing schedule. Enzo does his best to look after them all, but there is so much he cannot communicate since he cannot speak. Being inside Enzo's head, we can feel along with him as Denny tries to hold his family together against odds that are deliberately stacked against him by the very people who should be providing support. Along the way,
It's a wonderful read, with many thought-provoking riffs from Enzo about how we ought to be living our lives and treating those around us. Enzo also fills us in on the qualities of being a superb race car driver. Denny Swift, of course, in Enzo's eyes is the ultimate champion. And yes, reader, I did need Kleenex to get me through this book, so be warned if you plan to read it in a public place. Highly recommended.
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