The Art of Racing in the Rain
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- £4.99
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- £4.99
Publisher Description
Soon to be a major motion picture, this heart-warming and inspirational tale follows Enzo, a loyal family dog, tells the story of his human family, how they nearly fell apart, and what he did to bring them back together.
Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: he thinks and feels in nearly human ways. He has educated himself by watching extensive television, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo realizes that racing is a metaphor: that by applying the techniques a driver would apply on the race track, one can successfully navigate the ordeals and travails one encounters in life.
Enzo relates the story of his human family, sharing their tragedies and triumphs. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations as a dog, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family.
The Art of Racing in the Rain is a testament to a man's life, given by his dog. But it is also a testament to the dog, himself. Though Enzo cannot speak, he understands everything that happens around him as he bears witness to his master's problems. His enforced muteness only refines his listening ability, and allows him to understand many of life's nuances that are lost on most humans. With humour, sharp observation, and a courageous heart, Enzo guides the reader to the bittersweet yet ultimately satisfying conclusion: there are no limitations to what we can achieve, if we truly know where we want to be.
Reviews
Praise for The Art of Racing in The Rain:
‘The Art of Racing in the Rain is the perfect book for anyone who knows that some of our best friends walk beside us on four legs; that compassion isn't only for humans; and that the relationship between two souls who are meant for each other never really comes to an end. Every now and then, I'm lucky enough to read a novel I can't stop thinking about: this is one of them.’ Jodi Piccoult
‘The Art of Racing in The Rain has everything: love, tragedy, redemption, danger, and–best of all–the canine narrator Enzo. This old soul of a dog has much to teach to us about being human. I loved this book.’ Sara Gruen, author of Water for Elephants
‘The Art of Racing in the Rain takes you on an unforgettable journey through another kind of mind, through the eyes – and nose – of a dog. I found it fascinating.’ Temple Grandin, author of Animals in Translation
Praise for How Evan Broke His Head:
"An engrossing family drama." Publishers Weekly
"A powerful story" Seattle Times
About the author
Garth Stein is the author of How Evan Broke His Head and Other Secrets, which won a 2006 Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association Book Award, and Raven Stole the Moon. He has also written a full-length play, Brother Jones, which was described as "brimming with intensity" by the L.A. Weekly. Garth worked as a documentary filmmaker for eight years, and directed, produced or co-produced several award winning films. After spending his childhood in Seattle and then living in New York City for eighteen years, Garth returned to Seattle, where he currently lives with his family and their dog, Comet.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
If you've ever wondered what your dog is thinking, Stein's third novel offers an answer. Enzo is a lab terrier mix plucked from a farm outside Seattle to ride shotgun with race car driver Denny Swift as he pursues success on the track and off. Denny meets and marries Eve, has a daughter, Zo , and risks his savings and his life to make it on the professional racing circuit. Enzo, frustrated by his inability to speak and his lack of opposable thumbs, watches Denny's old racing videos, coins koanlike aphorisms that apply to both driving and life, and hopes for the day when his life as a dog will be over and he can be reborn a man. When Denny hits an extended rough patch, Enzo remains his most steadfast if silent supporter. Enzo is a reliable companion and a likable enough narrator, though the string of Denny's bad luck stories strains believability. Much like Denny, however, Stein is able to salvage some dignity from the over-the-top drama.
Customer Reviews
One for dog lovers!
Beautifully written and I basically see my dogs in a whole new light now. I haven't a clue about racing but to have the story told by Enzo was amazing such a lovely read that will stay with me for a very long time.
Driving dog
Lovely piece of work, very moving relationship between a racing driver, his daughter & (mostly) his dog. Written from the perspective of the dog it’s very moving
& well constructed
Five stars and two barks
Loved this book.
Had me smiling from ear to ear, then sobbing my heart out, then laughing out loud.
I have two border collie dogs, one is getting on in years, I also used to be involved in motor sport, this book spoke volumes to me.
I think it’s beautifully written, and I know it’s being, or has already been made into a movie, but I’m glad I read the book.