Book of the Week

Book of the week is a new thing I've decided to do. Each week I will post a book I think deserves a little more attention.

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

published by Harper

$14.99 (paperback)

Genre: adult fiction

321 pages

What it's about:

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.
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.
Why:
I've been thinking about this book a lot lately and everytime I think about it, I get teary eyed. I can not talk about this book without wanting to cry and I read this book a year ago. It is one of the best books I have ever read in my life. You don't have to be an animal lover to enjoy this book. This book will move you in a way no other book can.