A Reflection on The Art of Racing in the Rain

Last night I finished The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. Let me tell you that I was misty-eyed throughout the whole book, but I was a gross ball of torrential tears by the end. On my last post, I introduced you to Enzo, the endearing, relatable, wise-beyond-his-species canine of a narrator. Enzo takes us through his life, from the moment he was chosen by his master and friend, Denny, among a litter of puppies, through all of Denny's hardships, joys, defeats, and victories. Enzo holds strongly to the belief that his next life will be as a man, resisting animal instincts as much as caninely possible, proving to himself and, perhaps, to fate that he is ready to be a man. Enzo truly is the best friend a man can have, protecting Denny's wife, Eve, and daughter, Zoe as much as he can.

This is such a powerful account of loyalty, friendship, hope, and faith. Denny is also a great character. As he goes through his many trials, you can't help but be infuriated by the unfair circumstances thrust upon him. You are also inspired and uplifted by his will and determination to not be broken; when he falters, Enzo is there guiding him and rooting him on with his gestures.

 There were so many good quotes from this book, as my frequent Kindle posts on my Facebook page can prove. This is easily one of my favorite books of all time. It is such an easy read, yet so profound and heartwarming. There are many references to racecar driving, as that is what Denny does, but they are integrated beautifully and seamlessly into the book. I knew absolutely nothing about racecars (cars in general, really), but reading Enzo's passion and enthusiasm for a human sport was invigorating.

Add it to your to-read list! Although it's an easy read, you may not want to read this at the beach or in any other public place where you are afraid of being judged, because you WILL cry (assuming you have a soul).

Love and (a book) light,

~Dorothy