Published in 2008, The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein contains everything that I love to read in a book. It’s inspirational, sad, heart-warming, dramatic, and it will leave you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The story is told from a dog’s point of view, which leads to some funny and wise interpretations of human life. As Enzo follows the life of his owner Denny Swift, who is a race car driver in Seattle, family drama leaves Enzo heartbroken for his owner. Enzo is convinced that he will reincarnate in his next life as a human, and thus attempts to prepare for the transition easily by observing, learning, and serving his purpose in this life so that he will be able to pass on. He oftentimes reflects upon his journey through life while relating it to racecar driving, his owner Denny’s greatest passion.
Why you should read it: I loved this book because it made me think. It made me think about my greater purpose, the way I live daily, and what dogs would really say if they could talk. You should read this book for an enlightening and fun read that will give you insight via four legs. I think this book has something for everyone! Not only will it inspire you, but it will also help you put life into perspective, which I know I need every once in awhile. As someone who knows absolutely nothing about race car driving, I also found this book insightful to the sport and the passion it involves. Maybe we should listen to man’s best friend more often? Start reading The Fault in Our Stars by John Green for next time!
From the back cover: “A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope — a captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life . . . as only a dog could tell it.”