What a great book -- not in the sense of masterful literature but, rather, a satisfying "read" with a wonderful message. Check out the review by Jesse Kornbluth for a taste of what the book has in store for you that I wouldn't attempt to recreate. I read it 3 weeks ago during our vacation in Maine. Had occasion to describe it to a new-found friend we just met at dinner one night whom we learned happens to own a Doberman and gave the book to him (I don't want to disclose much about the ending except to say 'paying it forward' is a theme). So, why am I here? I'm buying another for my daughter who is about to get a "rescued" dog. Enjoy!

I'm not a dog-owner and I have no interest in race-car driving (or watching), but I still loved this book. Enzo's musings on life apply to all of us. He has some laugh-out-loud comments and moments -- as well as of course many heart-wrenching ones. (In fact, at one reading, I had to put down the book, thinking, "Oh, no, I think I know what's coming and I don't want something bad to happen to these characters I care about!") Enzo gains a lot of insights from watching television. My husband and I don't watch much tv and now I'm wondering if we're shorting our two cats!
--Kathie Hightower, co-author of Help! I'm a Military Spouse -- I Get a Life Too! 2d Edition

I read a review for this book in our local newspaper, written by a high school journalist. Like her, I do not find "animal" stories on the top of my list, so a dog on the cover would never have intrigued me. Like her, also, I found this story to be a human story, seen through the eyes of an animal. I absolutely loved it. My daughter loved it,too, and recommended it to my college age son. I'm also recommending it to my book club. Ran the gamut of emotions, laugh-out-loud and cry really hard. Enjoy!

This is a wonderful story whether you're a dog person or not. But it's especially meaningful if you've ever been adored by a dog like I have because you will understand and accept the deep bond between Enzo and Denny. It's Enzo's story to tell and quite simply, he adores Denny and the life he has with his family, and it's apparent in everything he does. Sometimes the story seems contrived but as a dog owner, I often think my own dogs express humanity, that they have a human 'voice", think human thoughts and would do human things if they just had those opposable thumbs.

Most of the story is about Denny's life, most of it rather tragic and rough, as observed by Enzo. The other characters - his wife Eve, daughter Zoe and his in-laws - are all superficial plot lines that allow Enzo to observe how other people interact with Denny. But in Enzo's center, it's always about Denny.

There's sadness from the beginning because you know that Enzo is dying so he deserves to tell HIS story HIS way. Enzo is satisfied that he lived a good life, one deserving of reincarnation to the next life which he fervently hopes is as a man. It's wonderful to believe that dogs can aspire to be more than what they are and this story makes you believe it's possible.

Keep tissues nearby. And read it with your dog.

If you only read one book this year, make it The Art of Racing in the Rain. I can't recall ever having read a book like this one. I noticed the book while at the cash register at Barnes & Noble; the cashier strongly suggested I read the book, and I'm so glad she did!!

This novel is narrated by a very intelligent canine, Enzo, who tells the tale of a few very difficult years in the life of his master, Denny, who is a race car driver. Enzo does the best he can to support and protect his family during a difficult time, and imparts to the reader life lessons gleaned from racing, a passion he shares with Denny.

It is a page-turner, and you'll be teary at the end; both because of the story itself, and the fact that the book is over!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

I was drawn to this book, like others, because of the fact that the narrator was a dog. I was hesitant at first - either that device can work really well or really bad. But I wasn't disappointed. I checked it out from the library to see if I would like it and this book is one that I plan to add to my own personal library.

Enzo (the dog) lives with a race car driver and tells about his life with him. I love the perspective of a dog in this book and it made me wonder if our animals really look at us that way.

Be forewarned - it was a tearjerker, but don't let that scare you away. It was a wonderful story. And if you aren't a fan of racing, don't let that scare you off either. It's apart of the story, but not so much so that a non-fan would be turned off by it.

I read it. I loved it. I put it down. Picked it back up and read parts(especially the last chapter) over and over. It touched my heart in the very same way that only your very best canine friend can. I will always love Enzo, the perfect example of why dogs are man's best friend. This book is nothing like "Edgar Sawtelle" - don't be deceived by comparisons. Forget Oprah's opinion -- read this!

Boy, this is one of those stories you just didn't want to end. What a delightful story as told by Enzo the Dog. Emotional, compassionate, funny, suspenseful, this one has it all. I had not heard of the Author "Garth Stein" prior to reading "The Art of Racing in the Rain", but when I finish this review, I am going to do a search on Amazon and buy his other books. It was a great read from first page to last, and I am serious--Garth if you are out there--do a sequel about Enzo's life as a man--please? I bet he would be just a great guy!

I didn't buy The Art of Racing in the Rain. It was given to me by a dear friend, who knew all too well the relationship I shared with my dog Boomerang, a beautiful yellow lab girl, who died in April at the age of 13. I was at first apprehensive to read it, since I thought it would be too painful, and now I wish I had read it sooner.
Enzo is a character (no pun intended) and wonderful narrator of the life he shares with his human pal Denny with all their trials and tribulations. If only more people could be like Enzo, who has a dry wit and deep desire to be human, as he thinks humans should be. Funny, dramatic and spiritual, once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. Thanks Enzo for your reminders about kindness, truthfulness and love.

I must say this is one of the best books I have ever read. I picked this book up after seeing it featured at Starbucks, and absolutely loved it. It is very different from any other book about a dog I've ever read. Using the dog as the narrator made this very enjoyable. I recommend for all animal lovers everywhere.

I must highly recommend this book. I let it sit on the shelf for a few months because I thought I knew how it would end...all dog books end the same way don't they? So in September I got out a box of kleenix and started to read. Oh yes, I needed the kleenix, but the book soared...on so many different levels.
It triumphs, and the tears were tears of joy. Life is lived fully while racing in the rain.

Yes its an unusual writing perspective, that of a dog who wishes he were a human, but Stein takes this into the stratosphere with this "potential human"'s views on his ameteur race-car-driver master's life, loss, marriage, perseverance, love, loyalty, and what the dog would do if he were reincarnated as a man - if you suddenly became a man, what would be most important to you? I'm a 39 year old man and this story made me laugh out loud, cry like crazy, and made me think about living life in The Now, and appreciating the relationships around you.

If you are a guy (or buying this for a guy) who enjoys racing and has ever been on a racetrack, the car racing narrative is absolutely spot-on. I have always wanted to explain to loved ones what "track day" feels like, how you can "feel" a motorcycle or car around the track at its limits, where you slow down your inputs in order to go faster, and Stein does this in a way I never could.

This was my favorite book of the year and is a great book for every man who loves racing and thinks about what's important in life.

This book came so highly rated I decided to take a chance on it... and I fell in love. I laughed and cried and ended hugging my own special canine very tightly. I am not a racing fan so was especially concerned I would not be able to connect with that aspect of the book...the author made it work beautifully. I love Enzo and all he teaches us along the way!

I strongly recommend this book. Enough said. But don't be lured by the photo of a retriever on the cover - pure publisher come-on. That is not Enzo (the dog that tells the story).

I have not actually cried while reading a book in a long time. What a touching, heartfelt story about a dog looking back on his life with his owner. Being an animal lover, I was attracted to this book by other reviews. I am in no way a racecar fan, but I didn't mind learning something about a sport I knew nothing about. A beautiful story....

I have lived in households that have included dogs my whole life. I have loved and bonded with a few through the years, including my present companion, a robust Chocolate Lab. I was glad to discover this small masterpiece.

First of all, I love the title. The Art of Racing in the Rain, told from the perspective of a dog named Enzo (after Ferrari) is a moving tale of love, loss and betrayal -- of overcoming impossible barriers and ultimate triumph. Enzo's master, Denny Swift, is a talented racecar driver. He is also husband to Eve, father to Zoe, and this core family is Enzo's Universe. Enzo has gained great wisdom and insight from his master and from watching TV, including among other things racing videos and the Weather Channel. Enzo tells the story of Denny's life with honesty and insight. Through Enzo's eyes we find a hero in Denny, a good man of patience, balance, confidence and perspective -- a man who doesn't look at the wall as his car spins out of control, but at the track. This is perhaps my favorite racing metaphor on life: that Denny does not meet the wall, but regains the track, even when he is racing blind. For Eve, Denny's dying wife, I feel incredible compassion. Eve, so afraid to be alone she asks Enzo to stay with her through the night and protect her, then whispers "thank you" to her protector on surviving the darkness. Young Zoe is her father's spirit, a tender, resilient child who completes the family. These are characters true to themselves and each other throughout the story. This novel keeps is eye on the next turn and remains on the track.

The love a special dog feels for its humans is unconditional. This novel very skillfully captures that passion and tells a story of a man who remained true to himself and his Universe.

I was a little worried I wouldn't be able to get into the book, but honestly I loved it! I read the whole thing in one weekend. It was a nice easy read that made me laugh and cry.

I was talked into reading this by a friend who adored it, and although I was skeptical about reading a book narrated by a dog, I read it so we could talk about it --- and I am so glad that I did.

I finished it a couple of days ago in my perfect "reading place", my screened porch - a good place to hide the "good tears" that I shed. The book was as good and as moving as my friend said it was.....just a wonderful story.

This was a quick read because you are dying to find out what happened.

The background to the story was car racing, used as a metaphor. Thus the title. I have no interest in car racing, but this did not interfere with my enjoyment of the story.

Enzo (the dog narrator) is so lovable and memorable and so very wise that I will long remember him. I especially loved that Enzo thought he looked like George Clooney, around the eyes! That made me laugh so hard! Enzo's opinions and his views on life were just great! How can one not love a dog who is firmly convinced that he will be reborn as a man and prepares for it every day of his dog-life?

This book deserved more press than "Edgar Sawtelle", for sure!

I PICKED UP THIS BOOK AT A LOCAL STARBUCKS. I SIMPLY WAS JUST INTERESTED IN READING A BOOK FROM A DOGS POINT OF VIEW. ALL I CAN SAY IS WOW! I CRIED AT THE BIGINING, MIDDLE AND END.
I HAVE SINCE PASSED ON THE BOOK TO ANOTHER DOG LOVER WHO HAS A HARD TIME PUTTING IT DOWN HERSELF.

This is the most amazing novel I have had the pleasure of reading in many moons. It is not only inspirational and thought-provoking, but it brands the reader's soul and leaves a permanent imprint.
Garth Stein performed an entertaining book reading at the Book Revue in Huntington, NY last month, and was so kind to answer audience questions about the "zebra" within us, the techniques of professional auto racing, (like visualizing egg shells between the foot and the accelerator, etc.)
One of the 2 excerpts he reads, deals with this most loving, evolved dog, Enzo. His fondest wish is to return as a man with opposable thumbs, the ability to embrace speech & the aspiration to become a grand champion race car driver. He watches TV, extensively studies racing videos with Denny, & learns "the car goes where the eyes look", as well as taking other steps to becoming a compassionate human being.
Enzo's sacrifices are many, as he reviews his life, and prepares for his imminent death,,, so he can take a leap of faith, and be reunited with his beloved human, Denny, and daughter, Zoe. He understands and evaluates the world and people around him, storing the information deep into the pocket of his soul, for the next lifetime.
He is ready,,, a double "WOOF WOOF" to indicate "Faster". Be prepared for Enzo's emotional "transition",,,so keep a few tissues handy.
The concept of writing a book from the canine's point of view is pure genius, and Garth Stein's mixing it with his extensive knowledge of car racing makes for a unique, one of a kind book.
What a fantastic movie this would make for the wide screen! Let's hope he writes a sequel,,,,"The Art of Flying in the Rain",,,where Jonathon Livingston Seagull meets Enzo the man.
I loved this book, and look forward to reading Garth Stein's other published books.
Respectfully
Arlene Millman
author of "Boomerang - A Miracle Trilogy (The Tale of a Remarkable Boston Terrier")

I was recommended this book by my brother. What an awesome story! From Enzo's perspective of the world around him to car racing. This is a must read!

I didn't want to like this book. I had read the negative reviews, and of course, the book jacket, and thought it would be trite and contrived. But........it grabbed me. Enzo is a wonderful character, and his humans are as well. Denny is driven, stoic, and fair and the analogies to racing ring true as life lessons. I really enjoyed this book, and a good cry at the end was worth the trip.

Outstanding book for Dog Lovers and non lovers alike. Very true and hart rendeing. The dog tells nthe story and captures your hart

To put it simply, I have no interest in reading fiction novels. I can sit down and read non-fiction/biographies etc and love doing so. This is only the second fiction novel I have read since High School, the other one was written by a childhood friend. Being a dog lover and a wannabe racecar driver this book spiked my interest, and with a little temptation from my wife to read a fiction novel, I bought a copy.

I CAN NOT SAY ENOUGH ABOUT THIS AMAZING BOOK! From go to whoa this book had me captivated. From the accurate description of the racing to the funny, thoughtful and intelligent commentary of Enzo. It has a great storyline with a few twists that I never saw coming I would recommend this book to anyone, especially if they are a dog lover or car racing fan. With high highs and low lows, this book took me on an emotional roller coaster.

This book made me laugh out loud (so loud I woke my wife), and cry like I never thought a book would do.

I would recommend you take some time to read this wonderful story.

A dog who watches tv and watches over family, a dog who tells of his six favorite actors, a dog who believes he will come back as a man, and dog who tells it as it is. These perspectives from the dog narrator pawed at my heart. As a dog owner/lover, I related to the feelings and insights conveyed. Stein/Enzo (the dog) captures the reader and barks twice (to go faster). I cried and laughed and cried some more. The storyline is not unique, but the point of view and organization are. Having the plot intertwined with racing skills, techniques and references is genius and the title, most appropriate.

One of the best books of the year! This one beats "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle" hands down! Don't make the mistake of passing up this book--it is a true gem.

The title is so apt on so many levels. The analogy to racing cars along with how one lives his or her life. While at first I was reticent to read about a dying dog, I became so enthralled I could not put it down. This is a keeper to be read again and again even though one knows the outcome and ending. We could all learn so much from Enzo and his spirit.

I'm recommending this book to everybody I know. If I had a print version I would pass it along to so many people. Hmmmmm, perhaps a paper copy is just the perfect gift this year for some of my friends and family. It's that good.

This book was fantastic! I was a little hesitant when it started out being narrated by the dog but it really worked. The main (human) character goes through such sad and emotional experiences but with the dog narrating it you are allowed to feel those emotions for yourself and not how the main character tells you to feel them, which makes it all the more personal and emotionally charged. The other thing I wasn't sure I would like at first was the 'race car' talk interjected from time to time, that seems to draw a parallel to the character's lives, but again, as I got further into the book the racing descriptions were a nice relief from the heartbreaking events and gave a little perspective on looking at life. This is one of the best books I have read in a long time!

I picked up this book without large hopes. I read lots of books about dogs, but while I enjoy them, they are usually just light entertainment. This book, however, still has me tearing up an hour after I finished it. It is very touching in that it takes you through every emotion, sadness to happiness, anger to laughter. It was very convincing that it was narrated by a dog, Enzo. I fell in love with the main characters and think it would make a great movie. I highly recommend this book.

I read this book in two sittings, and it is now one of my favorite fiction books. The narrator is a dog who who hopes to one day become a man, despite bearing witness to the cruelties that people can inflict on one another. He realizes and shows the reader through the story he tells that although things can look hopeless love, determination, and loyalty can often set things right.

Clearly this book will appeal to dog lovers, but hopefully this book will find wider appeal. This book would also appeal to fans of Jodi Picoult because of a controversial subplot. Men will appreciate the descriptions of car races and references to famous drivers. This book will take you through emotional highs and lows. Any lover of engrossing fiction should be as happy to go along for the ride that Garth Stein offers as would the canine narrator Enzo in his master's race car.

This is a must read for anyhone who has ever shared their life with a dog, or rather anyone who has had a dog that let them share their life with them. Warm, funny and totally engaging. This is a book that I will read many more times.

I have never written a review before but I loved this book so much I just had to share how wonderful it is. I read the whole thing in one night. I couldn't put it down. You will fall in love with the characters from the very beginning. It really makes you think about how we treat our loved ones & how time can slip away so fast. I know this is cliche but I laughed, I cried. Enzo will melt your heart & make you wish you could follow him wherever he goes.

I admit it... being a dog-lover (my wife and I own a 15 year old black lab mix and an 8 year old beagle mix) I was drawn in by the cover. Since I was not familiar with Garth Stein's novels, I was not sure what to expect. But, I found that this to be one of the most enjoyable books that I have read in quite some time.

Garth Stein has a nice fluid writing style and I was impressed with how well he portrayed the story through the mind of a dog. I also found myself moved with how he used racing as a metaphor for navigating through challenges in life. This book will stick with you long after you read it. It's been a couple of months now, and I still think fondly of Enzo. The story was made more powerful for me personally knowing that our beloved lab is in the twilight of his life, but I would recommend the book even to people that don't own dogs.

After reading The Art of Racing in the Rain, I am looking forward to reading the author's other works.

A week after finishing this book, I feel compelled to counter much of the effusive praise with an unpopular critique based on the merits of the plot. While Enzo is a noble and wise soul whose observations and musings confirmed much of what I believe goes on in my dog's mind, I found the story itself as saccharine and implausible as a Lifetime made-for-TV movie. Characters too flatly drawn as either too virtuous or completely vile, and a resolution as ridiculous as the last-minute confessions by the 'true killer' on an old episode of Perry Mason. I get it, the art of racing in the rain is learning to maneuver smartly with whatever life throws at you. But Denny seemed totally incapable of applying that skill to his own life beyond the race track, and thus unworthy of the fortune that ultimately befalls him.

"The Art of Racing in the Rain" is not perfect, too many flaws in the story and the writing for get 5 stars, but well worth reading.

The dog's eye view of the world (Enzo) makes the story, even with the human (Denny) being so darn dumb off the track. As a bonus, much of the racing stuff rings true so a superb read for a sports car racing fan (cars that can turn left AND right) or dog lovers and a great read for most everyone else.

If you have never had a dog or a pet you loved, then maybe you might not "get it"?

I bought this book from Starbucks, because I loved Marley & Me and apparently, I'm a sucker for a dog on a book. I bought it without reading the excerpt, and was happy to discover the book is narrated by the main character, Enzo. Enzo describes his life with the family, the funny stuff, the happy times and the extreme difficulties Denny (Enzo's master) faces later on, with such intelligence and insight only a dog could provide.

I will warn you- crying... the sobbing type of crying... will occur. It's a happy/sad ending that will make you remember why you love your own dog so much.

The opening chapter of this book tells us that this is going to be an unusual story - one told in the voice of the dog, Enzo. And Enzo is dying. However, the book is much more than that. Garth Stein, the author, has Enzo remember his puppyhood as well as most of the details of his life with Denny, a race car driver. In the process he offers a philosophy for each of their approaches to life - the fear of a driver for racing in the rain and the way he can overcome fears and go on is a major theme in the book. Because it is the life story of a dog, pet lovers, especially dog lovers, are sure to be touched, but others will surely love it too.

I can't see the appeal of this book. I felt like it was written for people who hate to read but love dogs and race car driving. Bad Very very bad!

I might never have picked this book up, but my sister-in-law recommended it, and I'm so glad she did. This is such a warm, wonderful book! Told from the dog's (Enzo) point of view, it's the story of him, his master Denny, and Denny's family.

It's written simply, but with so much depth and powerful emotion. Enzo lives his life as a dog trying to learn how to be a good human, since he believes that after his death, he will come back as a person.

I laughed in parts, cried in others. I give this one all 5 stars - I can't think of anything I didn't love about this book!

My wonder dog, Belle, is 14 years old. I've been worried - "When will the time come?" or worse, "How will I KNOW the time has come?" Garth Stein wrote this wonderful book for me. As much as my husband and I remember Belle's life and times and the funny stories, she may remember,too! She knows who she was and who she now is. And when her time comes, she'll be ready. What a relief to me. I love her so and realize through this story that she will indeed be with me always. Call me corney, silly, crazy- I don't care! This book touched me and helped me prepare for one of the toughest things I know I will face. And I thank Garth Stein for that.

I had been on the library's waiting list for this book for awhile. By coincidence, my number came up shortly after my 20-year-old cat died. And a few years ago I said good-by to my First Dog, Keesha. So I melted as I read some of the scenes between Denny and Enzo.

But the book has haunted me for reasons beyond my feelings for the dog and the Seattle location. It's really about human sadness -- about a person who lives a life where he doesn't quite fit. Denny, the dog says, doesn't really belong in Seattle. His marriage never feels right. His job gives him a lot of latitude to pursue his racing dreams, but he really doesn't belong behind a counter. His in-laws are a piece of work.

Both Denny and Enzo lead pretty tough lives. Enzo has to spend a lot of time alone. On Denny's frequent trips, Enzo gets boarded with people who are kind but indifferent. He gets tossed in a garage and left alone in a house for three days. One temporary host - the Evil In-Law - cruelly feeds him a pepper and he gets a most, um, delicious revenge. I was cheering for him.

Denny's tragedies make him a candidate for a modern Job. It's a series of bad things happening to a very good person. There's an understated but strong commentary on modern life. False accusations are not uncommon. A deadly illness means coping with an indifferent medical system. Money counts. Yet, as a lawyer character says, Denny is a competitor. Quitting is not an option.

The novel really comes together when the dog realizes he is dying. He realizes some wonderful events will be taking place and, he says, "I won't be there to see them." Animals of course don't know they will die, but their owners do. And in that brief sentence, Enzo captures the essence of the human condition: the ultimate pain of recognizing that sometimes you really have to say, "Never."

As I get older, I find myself thinking, "I may not be there." Enzo loves his owner so much it hurts to watch. He isn't sad about dying: he wants to be there for Denny, not himself.

The last few pages of the book -- a sort of postscript -- are a little over the top. I wonder if the publisher asked for them.

But Garth Stein can write. Each word carries weight and the book's structure is flawless. The theme of anticipating a sad end, and the lyrical writing, reminded me of another "sadness with substance" book, I Heard the Owl Call My Name.

So when I think of Garth Stein writing another book, I have to say, "I hope I will be around to read it."

I read alot of non-fiction and fiction and alot about animals, because I love them, and because I am a dog trainer. Also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. This author was right on about grieving issues and how the characters (man and dog)reacted to situations in the story. I loved that Enzo narrated the story. Couldn't put it down. What a guy (the author) and where did his sensitivity and creativity come from. Thank you for something wonderful out in the world of the written word.

I bought this book for my wife and I can't remember when (been married 41 years) I bought her a book that she couldn't put down. She didn't come to bed she read it almost non stop (she did put it down so she could fix my meals). Then she told me the story in such detail I did not have to read it. She loved it!

Loved this book! Brought back so many fond memories of my little "POLO" who was with me for 14 years - may he RIP. Today as I walk the streets in NYC I find myself talking to dog owners and recommending this book. Truly enjoyed the journey, I laugh, cried, and laugh again. . . incredible. :)

I bought this book for my wife and I can't remember when (been married 41 years) I bought her a book that she couldn't put down. She didn't come to bed she read it almost non stop (she did put it down so she could fix my meals). Then she told me the story in such detail I did not have to read it. She loved it!

Loved this book! Brought back so many fond memories of my little "POLO" who was with me for 14 years - may he RIP. Today as I walk the streets in NYC I find myself talking to dog owners and recommending this book. Truly enjoyed the journey, I laugh, cried, and laugh again. . . incredible. :)

if you love dogs this is a must read. Very well written sad but funny, witty. Now I know what my dog thinks sometimes.

Outstanding book written very well, but so very sad. Enzo was the best. Makes you look at your own dog differently!

if you love dogs this is a must read. Very well written sad but funny, witty. Now I know what my dog thinks sometimes.