Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition. He sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals.
On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through: the sacrifices Denny has made to succeed professionally; the unexpected loss of Eve, Denny's wife; the three-year battle over their daughter, Zoe, whose maternal grandparents pulled every string to gain custody. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family, holding in his heart the dream that Denny will become a racing champion with Zoe at his side.
Having learned what it takes to be a compassionate and successful person, the wise canine can barely wait until his next lifetime, when he is sure he will return as a man.
A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life...as only a dog could tell it.
©2008 Bright White Light, LLC; (P)2008 HarperCollins Publishers
"Enzo (because he's so wize) for president."
Of the 125 books I've listened to, this one is my favorite. The human characters were beautifully developed, but Enzo the dog will steal your heart. The story brings out a full range of emotions; I laughed many times, and cried when it was over. My husband is listening to it now, and he thinks it's great too. Don't miss it.
"5 out of 3000"
I have over 3000 audiobooks in two accounts - and have listened to them all - even when I should have stopped. The Art of Racing in the Rain is without question one of the five best.
"Inspiring without being cheesy"
I am a dog person, not a cat person, so that was easy. But I had a bit of trouble keeping going through a couple parts as they closely reflected things that are happening with my dog. But how they were done was good and eventually not as painful as I thought they would be. On the whole, I loved the entire book. The dog's perspective was well done. The book gave me something to think about as to how to live my life. Good narrator. I'll be reading it again.
"A Beautifully Told Story"
I was skeptical about listening to this book because I am a dog lover and I was afraid that it would be too sad for me. However, this was incredibly well-written. I never got to the point where I was too distraught to listen. This book took me through a full range of emotions. One minute I was tearing up and the next I was chuckling to myself. It brought to mind my own beloved dog(s).
I highly recommend this book!!!
"A stunning read"
I'll admit it... I frequently judge books by their covers. As a new owner of a yellow Labrador Retriever, this book screamed at me to pick it up off the table at our local library. I devoured the book, finishing it in just under two days. Then my wife read it at lightning speed.
This is where is gets weird...
After my wife read the book I read it again (something I have never done with fiction). Not only did I read it a second time, but then I picked it up here on audible.
Yes, it simply *is* that good!
The story is unique, and the main character's perspective is captivating. The book has really stuck with me, leading me to place a quote from it in my office at work.
Give it a listen, I'm certain you'll enjoy it.
Knowledge is knowing the way. Wisdom is looking for an alternative, more interesting road to get there. Audiobooks are that road.
"Pushes the Emotional Envelope"
I truly enjoy when a book challenges my emotions. A book that can do that, captures me, and I become part of it. It doesnt happen often, but it did happen in The Art of Racing in the Rain. A real human interest story with very high highs and low lows, all told from the view of the family dog. I love it! I am also a long time dog owner and lover and I appreciated all the little nuances that could only come from someone who truly knows how a dog behaves. As for the racing part, I know nothing about racing but it fit the story perfectly and I found I did not need to know a thing about racing or even be interested in it. The story takes you from the depths of despair to the heights of euphoria. It doesnt often get better than this.
"The Art of Racing in the Rain"
Absolutely LOVED this book.I have downloaded around 10 books over the past year and this is by far my favorite. I was totally dissapointed when it ended. Highly recommended
"I hope there is a sequel to this book"
This was an excellent narration of a well-written story. Garth Stein uses auto racing as the backdrop yet you don't have to be knowledeable or even care about the sport to enjoy the story. As proof, I played it for my wife on a 5-hr trip to Lake Tahoe. Even though she didn't know most of the famous racers mentioned, she caught the meaning & was eager to resume the story on the return leg of our round-trip. We both teared up near the end as we were hooked by the powerful narration. When they make a movie, I hope it's as gripping as the book.
"wow--what a great read"
this book may be one of the best audibles purchases that i've made. it was heartwarming, sweet, funny, etc etc...! definitely a must read/listen. everything--the narrator, characters, story develpment--was spot on!
"What a Story!"
It's been a while since I listened to a book and felt moved enough to write a review but this is one of the best this year. The premise is outlandish but it really works, the writing is beautiful. This story has everything in it - humor, friends, family, love and death. Within the first 5 minutes you are hooked on this story and will have a hard time turning it off. The narration and production of this book is excellent.