the art of racing in the rain by garth stein

On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. So, I guess that the fact that I hated where the story went so much, was in no small part due to how much I also loved this unique book.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. I'm sure that Christopher Evan Welch was a dog in a previous life. Even the great ending didn't abate my annoyance much. But right now, having just finished the book, this is how I feel. I suspect that a reread of the book will mellow my harsh feelings and make me love it again. Dammit, I went from listening with a sad smile (and even some tears) on my face, to listening with a grim determination to get the damn thing over with. I was actually angry at the book and had no enjoyment in listening for some time. I actually paused my reading for weeks before picking it up again.

Then the story introduces a major (and vile) plot element that completely dominates the book.

The philosophical and somewhat melancholy musings of the dog that almost feels like a human is fresh and utterly brilliant, and again yes, sad and beautiful. The first four hours of this book is wonderful. It alludes to Denny's racing and all of the character's individual philosophy of life. As with all good titles, it has many meanings. If you could rename The Art of Racing in the Rain, what would you call it? He sounds honest, forthright, and strong, just like Enzo.

Welch's voice emotes all the intelligence and wit possessed by Enzo. What about Christopher Evan Welch’s performance did you like? Fantastic book.Įnzo was insightful and intelligent and well versed in new age theory. All characters were fleshed out well and I felt the whole range of emotions Denny & Enzo. The depth of the observations made by the narrator about what it's like to be a dog were spot on. I finally listened to this after an Audible sale purchase and was amazed. I dodged this book for so long because I thought it would be simplistic as just another dog book riding the 'Marley & Me' coat tails. What did you love best about The Art of Racing in the Rain?

The art of racing in the rain by garth stein