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The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

Wed, 03/02/2011 - 01:00 | Fritzi Newton
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The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

If you’re determined to avoid any books guaranteed to trigger tears, then forget The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. I, however, am a sucker for an exceptional dog story and accustomed to the accompanying waterworks. From White Fang through Marley and Me to A Dog Year, the unconditional love, loyalty and goodness of (wo)man’s best friend keep me coming back for more.

Denny’s dog Enzo is wiser than most people. In fact, he’s convinced that in his next life he will return as a human. To that end, he has already started perfecting his skills so upon rebirth, he can (figuratively) hit the ground running.
 
Denny meets and marries Eve and they are subsequently blessed with the arrival of baby Zoe. Despite the family extension, Enzo remains cherished by all. But shortly after, Eve is stricken with an illness. Both she (and Enzo) realize something is terribly wrong, yet she refuses to see a doctor.

This is Enzo’s story as he shares his thoughts and wisdom, and, yes, I know it sounds hokey, but trust me when I say that there is absolutely nothing trite about this book. The “art of racing in the rain” refers to a professional driver’s ability to handle his car and deftly negotiate a hazardous track during inclement weather—something at which Denny excels. But even Denny needs Enzo’s support to survive the challenging road of life.

And, just between you and me, as I read The Art of Racing in the Rain, I couldn’t stop glancing at my own dog, wondering just how much more he understands than I give him credit for.